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Verstappen Exit Clause Rumors Persist as Mercedes Holds Private Talks

Clarity on Verstappen’s future is expected by summer’s end despite ongoing speculation about a 2026 Mercedes move.

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Overview

  • The Dutch driver’s contract with Red Bull runs through 2028 but reportedly includes a clause allowing him to leave if he fails to rank among the top three in the championship by the end of July.
  • Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has confirmed that informal discussions with Verstappen are under way, stressing that talks are held privately without a formal proposal.
  • Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko insists that Verstappen’s contract remains fully in force and that no exit conditions have yet been met.
  • Sky Sports News reports that Mercedes has not submitted any official request to Red Bull, with any early departure triggering a buyout clause that could exceed 100 million pounds.
  • McLaren chief Zak Brown warns that pairing Verstappen with Mercedes could intensify the title fight, especially given Mercedes’s strong start on 2026 technical regulations.