Speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 has intensified following reports of a potential move to McLaren. The four-time world champion’s current contract with Red Bull Racing runs until the end of the 2028 season. However, a performance-based exit clause has reportedly been activated.
This clause allows Verstappen to consider other options if he is not within the top two or three positions in the Drivers’ Championship by the summer break. As of the Hungarian Grand Prix last weekend, Verstappen is currently sixth in the 2026 standings.
Red Bull has responded by reportedly tabling a new contract offer to Verstappen. The proposed deal would extend his tenure until the end of the 2029 season.
This new agreement is said to include a significant salary increase, potentially reaching around $80 million or €65 million annually. Crucially, it would also remove the performance-related exit clause from his contract.
Verstappen and his management team have not yet formally responded to Red Bull’s offer. A decision on his long-term future is anticipated by October.
The ongoing discussions coincide with reported unrest within Red Bull Racing. Verstappen has expressed dissatisfaction with the 2026 car’s handling, describing it as ‘super dangerous’ at the British Grand Prix.
Red Bull has yet to secure a victory during the 2026 season, a significant departure from previous years. This performance deficit has contributed to internal disagreements regarding the car’s development direction.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown has publicly addressed the rumours linking Verstappen to his team. Brown maintains satisfaction with the current driver lineup of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Both Norris and Piastri are secured on multi-year contracts, with Piastri’s deal extending until at least the end of 2028. Brown has indicated that a seat would only become available under unforeseen circumstances.
Verstappen’s race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, is also reportedly heading to McLaren, adding another layer to the transfer speculation.
Despite the activated clause, Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, has reiterated the driver’s loyalty to Red Bull. Vermeulen stated Verstappen intends to fulfill his contract until 2028.
The situation remains fluid as the Formula 1 summer break commences, with the driver market for 2027 and beyond a key topic of discussion.
