Max Verstappen has fully committed to Red Bull for the 2026 Formula 1 season, removing any lingering doubts about his contract situation.

Max Verstappen has confirmed for the first time that he will stay with Red Bull - after George Russell admitted he is on the brink of a new Mercedes contract.

Max Verstappen has ended any lingering speculation over his future with Red Bull Racing by confirming that he will stay at the team into 2026. Verstappen holds a Red Bull contract through 2028 but the team’s drop in performance, and the potential of a break clause, led to speculation that he could seek a move elsewhere.

Speculation of Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull will go back on hold for another year. Chatter has persisted about the four-time Formula One champion leaving Red Bull amid interest from Mercedes. Although Verstappen is under contract through 2028,

Former Formula One driver Jenson Button has backed Max Verstappen 's move to Mercedes, saying he would form an excellent driver lineup with George Russell. While that would mean replacing Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Button said the junior driver is yet to showcase his true talent.