Laurent Mekies, Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, has addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s future, stating that contractual agreements are definitive. His comments come amidst persistent rumours regarding Verstappen’s long-term commitment to the team, particularly concerning potential exit clauses in his current deal.
Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull Racing is set to run until the conclusion of the 2028 Formula 1 season. However, reports indicate this agreement includes performance-related exit clauses that could allow the driver to depart earlier.
For a potential exit in 2027, the clause stipulates that Verstappen must not be within the top two positions of the Drivers’ Championship by the summer break. This critical deadline follows the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix.
As of Thursday, July 23, 2026, Verstappen is currently positioned seventh in the Drivers’ Championship standings. This standing confirms that the conditions for activating his contractual exit clause for the 2027 season have been met.
Mekies acknowledged the natural interest in Verstappen, describing him as ‘the best driver in the world’. He also noted that top teams frequently receive inquiries from other skilled drivers seeking future opportunities.
When questioned directly about the clauses, Mekies told Bild, ‘An agreement is an agreement. A contract is a contract.’ He emphasised that Red Bull’s focus remains on enhancing car performance.
Mekies reiterated that providing a competitive car is paramount to retaining Verstappen, acknowledging the driver’s consistent need for a fast car to maintain his satisfaction within the team.
Speculation has linked Verstappen to rival teams such as McLaren and Mercedes for the 2027 or 2028 seasons. However, McLaren has denied these reports, with Oscar Piastri confirming his continuation with the team in 2027.
Mercedes has also reportedly closed the door on Verstappen for 2027, having secured George Russell’s contract extension. This limits Verstappen’s immediate options outside of Red Bull.
Verstappen himself has maintained a cautious public stance, declining to commit beyond 2026 when questioned about his future. His manager, Raymond Vermeulen, has stated Verstappen’s desire to fulfil his contract until 2028.
The current 2026 season has seen Red Bull Racing experience performance struggles, with Verstappen yet to secure a victory and the team trailing Mercedes and McLaren in the Constructors’ Championship.
This context follows the departure of Adrian Newey from Red Bull in the first quarter of 2025. Newey, now Team Principal at Aston Martin, was a key technical figure for Red Bull for many years.
Red Bull Racing’s current driver lineup for the 2026 season features Max Verstappen alongside newly promoted teammate Isack Hadjar.
