Red Bull CEO affirms Verstappen’s future with team
Red Bull’s chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff has declared his absolute certainty that Max Verstappen will conclude his Formula One career with the Austrian outfit, reports BritPanorama.
Mintzlaff, speaking to Dutch publication De Telegraaf, dismissed concerns surrounding performance-related exit provisions in the four-time world champion’s contract. The 28-year-old Dutchman remains signed with the Milton Keynes-based team until 2028, although reports suggest his deal may include a release clause.
During the early months of the season, speculation regarding Verstappen’s future intensified, particularly as Mercedes was strongly linked with a potential move. In the championship standings, Verstappen found himself over 100 points behind Oscar Piastri as late as August. However, a significant recovery in the latter stages of the campaign saw him mount a formidable challenge, concluding just two points behind Lando Norris in the final standings.
This resurgence followed key changes within Red Bull, including the departure of team principal Christian Horner after an internal struggle. Long-standing adviser Helmut Marko also stepped down at the end of the season. Mintzlaff emphasized that the team’s collective efforts had notably influenced Verstappen: “What is most important for an athlete is to see that everyone in the team gives everything for him. And I think Max has been impressed by the way the results and the atmosphere in the team have turned this year.”
The Red Bull CEO pointed to the team’s substantial investment in developing its own power unit as evidence of their commitment. “Don’t forget that we are an energy drink brand and what a unique step this is,” he said, highlighting a sense of mutual appreciation and loyalty within the team.
As for Verstappen himself, he had sought to quell transfer speculation prior to his late-season revival. Speaking ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix in August, he confirmed his intent to stay with Red Bull for the 2026 season, stating, “I think it’s time to basically stop all the rumours and, for me, it’s always been quite clear that I was staying anyway.” His ongoing discussions regarding car development underscored his dedication to the project, affirming, “I think when you’re not interested in staying then you also stop talking about these kind of things – and I never did.”
Verstappen’s journey through the season serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of Formula One, where ambition collides with the evolving dynamics of team strategy. With uncertainty often surrounding driver contracts, his reaffirmation of commitment to Red Bull amidst the shifting tides offers a glimpse into the intricate balance between loyalty and competition.
