Overview

• Helmut Marko confirmed Max Verstappen will remain at Red Bull for the 2026 season.
• Verstappen’s contract now runs through 2028 and carries a mid-season performance clause allowing him to leave if results falter.
• Red Bull’s dip in competitiveness this season intensified scrutiny of driver commitments ahead of the 2026 technical overhaul.
• Mercedes has shifted its strategy after missing out on Verstappen to negotiate a multi-year £30 million-a-year extension with George Russell.
• Russell’s contract talks are in an advanced stage, with a formal announcement expected during Formula 1’s summer break.