Overview

• The Indianapolis Star, cited by multiple outlets, reports Red Bull has serious interest in pairing Alex Palou with Max Verstappen for 2026.
• Palou, his manager Roger Yasukawa, and Chip Ganassi Racing state no discussions have taken place with Red Bull about a Formula 1 move.
• Reporting indicates Palou’s Ganassi deal runs through 2026 with an F1 exit clause that would likely require a substantial buyout.
• A separate McLaren breach‑of‑contract case is ongoing, with Palou admitting breach and a UK trial scheduled for October.
• Red Bull’s second seat has been unsettled in recent seasons, with Sergio Perez departing, Liam Lawson briefly tried, and Yuki Tsunoda currently in the car as the team evaluates options.