Three-time reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has dispelled any doubts surrounding his immediate future by saying he will remain with the Red Bull team next season.
Verstappen announced his decision on Thursday at a press conference ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, after being asked three times about his future at Red Bull before responding curtly: “OK, yes. »
“What I mean is that we have already started working on next year’s car,” said the Dutchman. When you focus on this kind of task, then it usually means that you will drive for this team. »
Verstappen has a contract with Red Bull until 2028, but the wheel abandoned by Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025 has led to numerous rumors about the German team’s desire to convince Verstappen to join it. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff mentioned earlier this year that he would “love” to have Verstappen as his driver.
“Obviously people talk, but it is essential that we can count on a competitive car for the future,” Verstappen said. And for sure, I have already discussed it with the team, we are working and we are focused on next season in order to be competitive again. »
Verstappen leads the drivers’ standings with a cushion of 69 points ahead of McLaren driver Lando Norris. He has scored seven victories in 10 races so far this season, including taking honors at the Spanish Grand Prix last week.
F1 will carry out a major overhaul of its regulations in preparation for the 2026 season.
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