Max Verstappen is currently on his mandated Formula 1 summer break, a period of respite following the Hungarian Grand Prix and preceding the Dutch Grand Prix later this month. The break, which includes a compulsory 14-day factory shutdown for all teams, allows drivers to recuperate from the demanding 2026 season schedule.
During this time, Verstappen has been observed spending time with his partner Kelly Piquet and family. The family recently celebrated Penelope’s seventh birthday, with images shared on social media depicting a relaxed atmosphere.
Adding to ongoing speculation regarding his future, Verstappen was photographed with Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff in Sardinia. They were accompanied by their respective partners, Kelly Piquet and Susie Wolff. This marks the second consecutive year the two have been seen together in Sardinia during the summer break.
The sighting has intensified discussions about Verstappen’s long-term commitment to Red Bull. His current contract extends until the end of 2028, but an exit clause is active for the 2027 season. This clause permits him to depart if he is not positioned within the top two of the drivers’ standings by the summer break.
Verstappen is currently outside the top two in the championship, making the exit clause actionable. Red Bull is reportedly seeking to secure a new agreement with the four-time world champion, proposing an extension until the end of 2029 with an increased salary and the removal of the existing exit clause.
Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, has publicly refuted reports suggesting his son is preparing to recommit to Red Bull for 2027. Formula 1 commercial boss Stefano Domenicali has also confirmed discussions with Verstappen regarding his future and the 2027 technical regulations.
Verstappen has voiced dissatisfaction with the 2026 regulations and the performance of his Red Bull car this season. Mercedes and McLaren have been cited as potential destinations should he choose to activate his contract’s exit clause.
In other F1 news during the summer period, Lewis Hamilton has introduced a new golden retriever puppy named Halo. Hamilton, who secured his first victory with Ferrari at the Spanish Grand Prix earlier this season, is currently second in the drivers’ standings, 50 points behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli.
Pierre Gasly and the Alpine team organised their annual ‘Run for Anthoine’ at Spa-Francorchamps in July. This event serves as a tribute to Anthoine Hubert and Dilano van ‘t Hoff, held ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend.
Additionally, the Red Bull RB17 hypercar made its public track debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2026. The vehicle, designed by Adrian Newey, is powered by a Cosworth V10 engine.
