Former Formula 1 driver Robert Doornbos anticipates a significant announcement regarding Max Verstappen’s future with Red Bull Racing at the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix. Doornbos, speaking on The Pit Talk Podcast, stated his conviction that Verstappen will remain with the team.
The 2026 Dutch Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from August 21-23 at Circuit Zandvoort. This event marks the final running of the Dutch Grand Prix under its current contract with Formula 1.
Verstappen is currently under contract with Red Bull Racing until the conclusion of the 2028 season. However, his existing agreement contains a performance-based exit clause.
This clause permits him to depart Red Bull at the end of 2026 if he is not positioned within the top two of the Drivers’ Championship standings by the summer break. As of late July 2026, Verstappen is sixth in the championship, over 100 points behind Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli. This standing has activated the exit clause.
Red Bull has reportedly presented Verstappen with a new contract offer. This proposed deal would extend his tenure until the end of the 2029 season. Crucially, the new contract would remove the performance-based exit clause.
The offer also includes a substantial salary increase for the four-time world champion. Verstappen’s management is currently reviewing the terms, with a decision expected by October.
Despite the ongoing speculation, Verstappen has expressed satisfaction with his current team. He described Red Bull as ‘like a second family’ and emphasized his focus on maximizing the car’s performance. His manager, Raymond Vermeulen, has also affirmed Verstappen’s intent to fulfill his existing contract until 2028.
The broader 2027 driver market shows limited immediate options for Verstappen. Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren appear to have their driver lineups largely settled for the upcoming season.
Doornbos’s prediction of an announcement at Zandvoort aligns with the timing of the Dutch Grand Prix, which is a significant event for Verstappen and his home crowd.
‘The future of Max Verstappen will most likely be announced in Zandvoort,’ Doornbos stated, citing his paddock sources.
This potential announcement would provide clarity for Red Bull Racing as they plan their driver lineup for the 2027 season and beyond.
