Red Bull Ltd managing director Oliver Mintzlaff is not worried about the terms of Max Verstappen’s contract with the Milton Keynes team.
Although the Dutchman’s contract with Red Bull runs until the end of 2028, it is understood that the terms of the contract allow Verstappen to leave the team early.
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Discussions with Mercedes Formula 1 team principal and chief executive Toto Wolff sparked rumors that the four-time champion wanted a move to Brackley in 2026, but Verstappen later closed the door on an exit and reiterated his commitment to Red Bull next year.
“The big thing is, I’m not afraid of any performance clauses in his contract. The most important thing for an athlete is that he sees everyone on the team giving their all for him. And I think Max was impressed with the results and the atmosphere on the team this year,” Mintzlaff told telegraph.
“Of course Max always wants to win and have the best car, but so do we. As long as Max feels we’re working hard and doing the best we can, I think he’ll stay loyal. He also sees how much we put into our engine.
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“Don’t forget we are an energy drink brand and what a unique step this is. I feel there is great appreciation and loyalty from both sides. I have no doubt that Max Verstappen will finish his career at Red Bull.”
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
2026 will usher in a new wave of regulation for F1, which will become the reset button on the grid. Verstappen previously confirmed he would consider retiring if he didn’t find the new rules interesting.
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“My contract is valid until 2028, but [his future] It will depend on the new rules in 2026 and whether they are good and interesting,” he told us PA Ahead of the 2025 Qatar Grand Prix.
“If they weren’t fun, then I really don’t think I’d be hanging around. Winning seven championships is not on my radar. I know there’s still three years after this, so it’s possible, but it’s not something I need to do before I leave the sport. I could easily leave the sport tomorrow.”
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