Overview

• Max Verstappen says remaining with Red Bull for 2026 was "very, very simple," reaffirming a contract that runs through 2028.
• The reported exit clause allowing a 2025 departure if he were fourth or lower after the Hungarian Grand Prix did not activate.
• Toto Wolff says he explored Verstappen’s availability as a professional obligation and now respects the decision to stay with Red Bull.
• Mercedes’ interest complicated George Russell’s extension talks, with Wolff now free to progress deals for Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
• Verstappen, third in the standings on 187 points behind Oscar Piastri (284) and Lando Norris (275), downplayed speculation and described social time with Wolff in Sardinia as non-business.