Despite facing a difficult 2025 season, Max Verstappen has reaffirmed his commitment to Red Bull Racing—for the time being. The reigning four-time Formula 1 world champion, who has dominated the sport since 2021 with Red Bull, suggested that while his intention is to stay, unexpected developments could alter his course.
“I did always say that to the team,” Verstappen told Dutch outlet De Telegraaf.
“That's the intention, unless strange things happen. But that \[a departure] is not my intention at the moment.”
A Legacy with Red Bull—But Cracks in 2025
Verstappen’s journey with Red Bull began in 2016 when he stepped up from Toro Rosso and immediately made an impact by winning his first race. Since then, he’s amassed 63 more victories and claimed four consecutive world titles between 2021 and 2024.
However, 2025 has brought new challenges. The current Red Bull car hasn’t lived up to its predecessors, and rivals—particularly McLaren—are putting serious pressure on the team. Still, Verstappen isn’t rushing any decisions about his future.
Linked to Aston Martin and Mercedes Amid Rule Shakeup
With F1’s next major regulation overhaul coming in 2026, Verstappen’s long-term position remains under scrutiny. Though contracted with Red Bull until 2028, rumors have linked him to Aston Martin—where former Red Bull design guru Adrian Newey could land—as well as to a surprise move to Mercedes.
Yet, Verstappen insists any such talk is premature.
“Because first I want to see how the rest of the season – or at least part of it – goes,” he explained. “That big, decent steps can be made by the team. The next few races are very important. Yes, also for my future. Then I'm not even necessarily just talking about next year, but in general. I think everyone in the team realizes that too.”
No F1 Break in Sight for Verstappen
While speculation swirls around his future team, one thing Verstappen made crystal clear: he has no plans to step away from Formula 1.Dismissive of recent talk suggesting he might take a sabbatical, he said:
“There is no question of that, my intention is to last in Formula 1 at least through 2028.”
He added that while not everything in the F1 world appeals to him, his passion for racing remains strong.
“Obviously I don't like everything in this environment, but I do like working with the people around me and the racing itself. Although a fourth place like in Miami is not what I'm doing it for. But it's always better than finishing last.”
Imola Holds Key to Red Bull’s Fightback
This weekend’s race at Imola presents an opportunity for Red Bull to bounce back. The team has introduced a host of upgrades aimed at closing the gap to McLaren, who currently lead the championship battle.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Red Bull can deliver the progress Verstappen needs—and whether “strange things” will force a change in direction for one of the sport’s biggest stars.