Helmut Marko has officially stated that Max Verstappen will continue his association with Red Bull in the upcoming season, opting to remain loyal to his current team. The four-time Formula 1 champion attracted interest from Mercedes but ultimately decided against switching teams for the 2026 season.
Verstappen’s decision was reportedly solidified during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, where he clinched an unexpected victory in the Sprint race before finishing fourth behind the McLaren duo and Charles Leclerc in the main race on Sunday.
Reports from Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf indicate that Verstappen is content with Red Bull’s current structure and has been impressed by his interactions with the new team principal, Laurent Mekies, who took charge after Christian Horner’s departure.
Even if Verstappen had considered leaving Red Bull in 2025, any potential separation would have been complex. His contract’s release clause could only have been activated if he fell to fourth place or lower in the drivers’ championship standings by the summer break, but his strong performance at Spa-Francorchamps secured him third place.
Confirming the news at the Belgian GP paddock, Marko emphasized that he foresees no changes in the team’s star driver lineup before the 2026 season. “Yes, I can confirm that Max Verstappen will drive for Red Bull in 2026,” he affirmed. This development carries significant implications for competitors like Mercedes, who were strongly linked to Verstappen in case he decided to switch teams.
With Verstappen’s future settled, attention now shifts to George Russell, who is expected to commit his long-term future to Mercedes, following Verstappen’s decision. Discussions about Russell’s contract extension, reportedly worth £30 million annually, are progressing, placing him among the top-paid drivers on the grid, trailing only Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.
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The reported pay rise for Russell is well-deserved, considering his strong performances and growing leadership role within the team. Meanwhile, Kimi Antonelli’s debut season has been inconsistent, with the Italian teenager facing increasing pressure after multiple scoreless finishes. Unlike Russell, there are no current reports hinting at a new contract for Antonelli as his current deal nears expiration.