Max Verstappen, when questioned after the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix, confirmed that he still has full trust in Red Bull Racing and remains committed to the team for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Just a few weeks before the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, speculation in the Formula 1 paddock intensified regarding a potential move by Max Verstappen to Mercedes. The rumour was fuelled by the long-standing admiration that Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has expressed for the Dutch driver. For many observers, it appeared the perfect opportunity for Wolff to attempt to bring Verstappen to Brackley.
However, what followed was an unexpected twist. Red Bull Racing, the Milton Keynes-based team, made a pivotal internal decision by parting ways with team principal Christian Horner. This move seemingly played a decisive role in winning back the trust of their three-time world champion. Shortly after, Verstappen publicly stated his desire to remain with Red Bull.
Now, following the race weekend in Hungary, Max Verstappen has once again reaffirmed his commitment to the team and has also spoken more openly about the new era of Formula 1 set to begin in 2026.
Max Verstappen’s words
In his post-race interview in Budapest, Max Verstappen explained: “I wanted to stay at Red Bull. Together with the team, we had already started discussing next year’s car for some time, and when you’re doing that, it means you’re interested in staying.”
Responding to a follow-up question, Verstappen added: “Next year will be difficult. We will have to compete against many cars that will be ready, but there is still time to reach a good level.”
These statements were seen as a significant vote of confidence in Red Bull by Max Verstappen, especially considering that the recent reaffirmation of his loyalty came after a particularly turbulent phase within the team.
The 2026 Formula 1 season will be shaped by a major regulatory overhaul, including new power unit regulations and aerodynamic rules. These changes are expected to reset the competitive hierarchy, giving every team a fresh opportunity to establish themselves. While some teams will be aiming to return to former glory, others are looking to seize this moment to claim a place at the front for the first time.
At this point in time, Red Bull Racing does not appear to be the frontrunner heading into the new era. According to current paddock assessments, both Mercedes and Ferrari are believed to be further ahead in terms of development for the 2026 regulations.
Nevertheless, as Max Verstappen noted, there is still plenty of time for Red Bull to close the gap and develop a competitive package in time for the new season.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix proved to be a difficult race for Max Verstappen. He finished in ninth place after a weekend in which he struggled to find consistent pace and performance. The result was disappointing for the reigning world champion, who had spent much of the event under pressure and unable to challenge the front-runners.
With the summer break now underway, the team and driver will have a chance to reset and return with renewed energy and focus for the final stretch of the championship. This pause in the calendar offers a much-needed opportunity for Red Bull Racing and Max Verstappen to regroup, recharge, and prepare to fight back stronger in the remaining races of the 2025 season.
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