Speculation about Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull after 2026 never fully dies down. The team’s CEO has now provided some clarity on the Dutch driver’s future.
Verstappen’s position at Red Bull has been a central topic throughout the first half of the 2025 season. Now that the Dutchman has finished second in the Drivers’ Championship, is the team truly secure regarding his post-2026 plans? Oliver Mintzlaff has addressed doubts surrounding the retention of his star driver.
Early persistent rumors linked Max Verstappen to Mercedes, suggesting a potential early exit from Red Bull due to performance clauses. However, as of now, Verstappen holds a contract with the team through 2028.
After the summer break, the 1997-born driver confirmed he will continue racing at least until 2026. Meanwhile, both Red Bull and Max Verstappen have shown significant performance improvements, coming close to securing a fifth consecutive Drivers’ Championship title.
Speaking to De Telegraaf, Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff expressed full confidence in Verstappen’s loyalty. “I have no concerns regarding the performance clauses in his contract,” he said. “What matters to an athlete is seeing that the entire team gives their best for him, and Max has certainly appreciated the progress and the positive atmosphere within the team this year.”
Despite having a contract valid until the end of 2028, the four-time World Champion has not ruled out an early retirement if he feels dissatisfied with the new technical regulations. Mintzlaff emphasized that the team’s priority is to provide a competitive car, while remaining confident that Verstappen will not switch to a rival.
“Of course, Max always wants to win with the best possible car, and we want the same for him,” he added. “As long as he perceives that we are doing everything possible, he will remain loyal to Red Bull. The mutual loyalty is enormous, and for me there is no doubt: Max will finish his career here,” Oliver Mintzlaff concluded.
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