Max Verstappen has announced that he will remain with Red Bull for the 2025 season, despite ongoing speculation regarding his future at the world champion Formula One team due to connections to Mercedes.
Despite a contract with Red Bull that runs until 2028, Max Verstappen’s future with the team has been the subject of constant speculation throughout the season. Tensions at the start of the year, coupled with an investigation into team principal Christian Horner and a public pursuit by Mercedes for a replacement for Lewis Hamilton, have fueled the rumors.
Adding to the intrigue, Mercedes-Benz chairman Ola Källenius recently remarked that Verstappen “would look good in silver,” though team boss Toto Wolff denied any ongoing talks with the triple world champion.
Horner has consistently reassured fans that Verstappen will remain with Red Bull, but rumors of a 2025 move have persisted. When asked ahead of the Austrian GP if he wanted to end the speculation, Verstappen emphasized the importance of having a competitive car. “People are talking, but the most important thing is that we have a very competitive car for the future,” said Verstappen, who currently leads this year’s championship by 69 points.
“I don’t feel one way or another about it,” he continued. “Performance is what gives me the best chance of staying here. It’s not going to be my nice smile or anything else.”
When pressed to confirm his plans for 2025, Verstappen replied with a smile, “You didn’t get that out of my answer before? I mean, okay, yes.”
Verstappen’s long-term contract with Red Bull includes a break clause linked to Helmut Marko’s presence at the team, which could be a factor in his considerations. However, Verstappen dismissed the idea of leaving if Red Bull doesn’t maintain its dominance by the end of the year. “I’ve got a long contract with the team. I’m very happy where I’m at, and we are already focusing on next year,” he said.
Wolff, who has previously named Verstappen as his top target to replace the Ferrari-bound Hamilton, is also considering promoting junior driver Kimi Andrea Antonelli to the vacant seat next to George Russell. Antonelli, currently in his first F2 season, is under a Mercedes junior contract, but Wolff is in no rush to make a final decision for 2025.
Verstappen is also closely involved in Red Bull’s preparations for the new 2026 engine regulations, where the team, in partnership with Ford, is developing its own engine for the first time. “The team has hired a lot of good people. Everyone is pushing flat out to make it the fastest engine possible,” Verstappen said. “From what I can see at the factory, they have all the tools they need to make it a success.”
As the F1 world watches closely, Verstappen’s focus remains on performance and ensuring Red Bull continues its winning streak. The next few seasons will be crucial in determining whether the Dutchman stays with Red Bull or takes his talents elsewhere.
