Max Verstappen’s manager drops major contract hint: Future decision expected before summer break. Verstappen camp issues Red Bull warning as manager addresses exit clauses and 2026 doubts.

Raymond Vermeulen, Max Verstappen’s manager, has recently clarified the Dutch driver’s future in Formula 1. Although the four-time world champion is locked into a Red Bull contract until 2028, his name has been at the very center of intense silly season speculation for some time now.

According to paddock rumors, the agreement includes performance-related exit clauses that are currently not being fully met. This factor, combined with Red Bull’s recent drop in competitiveness, has inevitably fueled rumors of a blockbuster exit. Furthermore, Verstappen himself has repeatedly expressed critical views regarding the upcoming 2026 technical regulations. He has emphasized that a 60/40 power split between the internal combustion engine and the electrical components represents a minimum condition for him to continue his career in Formula 1—a compromise that, according to the FIA’s current roadmap, is only expected to be introduced starting in 2028.

When interviewed by Sport BILD, Raymond Vermeulen addressed the ongoing situation directly: “Our contract is valid until the end of 2028. Naturally, contracts always contain exit clauses, but so far we have never had to use them.”

A complicated start to the season, which has yielded just a single podium finish in the opening seven races, has turned the spotlight on the Dutchman’s next move. However, his management team seems intent on clearing the air sooner rather than later.

“We want to decide our future quickly, so that everyone knows where we stand, possibly even before the summer break,” Raymond Vermeulen added. “We would like to continue with Red Bull and see Max finish his career there, but he must always have the chance to fight for victory.”

In conclusion, the statements from Max Verstappen’s camp have sent a clear message to Red Bull regarding the urgency of their performance recovery. By tying his long-term future to the team’s competitiveness and setting a pre-summer deadline, the Verstappen management ensures that the pressure remains firmly on Milton Keynes to deliver a race-winning car before the driver market makes its next major move.