Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has addressed the ongoing speculation regarding Max Verstappen’s future. Mekies stated he understands the driver’s position amid the team’s challenging start to the 2026 season.
Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028. However, the agreement contains performance-related exit clauses that have become a central topic of discussion in the paddock.
It is understood a specific clause allows Verstappen to leave for 2027 if he is not within the top two of the championship standings by the summer break. Given his current position, it is a foregone conclusion this clause can be triggered.
Mekies has made it clear that the team’s priority is performance, not contracts. He stated that providing Verstappen with a competitive car is the only way to silence the persistent rumours about a potential move.
‘I understand Max: he wants to win. That’s why he’s in this sport, but the same goes for us. For that, he needs a fast car.’
The Red Bull boss insists the team is not distracted by the situation. He explained that Verstappen remains fully involved in the car’s development process, working closely with the engineers to find improvements for the RB22.
Recent reports have linked the four-time world champion with rivals, including McLaren. Mekies acknowledged that it is natural for the ‘best driver in the world’ to receive calls from every team on the grid.
Despite the speculation, Verstappen’s manager Raymond Vermeulen has stated that the intention is to fulfil the current contract. He noted that the existence of a clause does not automatically mean it will be activated.
Red Bull has endured a difficult start to the new regulation era, currently sitting fourth in the Constructors’ Championship. The team is navigating its first season with the new Red Bull Ford Powertrains unit.
The team introduced a significant upgrade package at the Austrian Grand Prix, hoping to close the performance gap to the front-runners. Mekies emphasized that the focus is on returning the car to a competitive level as quickly as possible.
