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2d ago

Verstappen Secures Red Bull Seat for 2026 as Russell’s Mercedes Deal Remains Pending

Confirmation of Verstappen’s extension follows the voiding of his exit clause, placing Mercedes under new pressure to resolve George Russell’s contract as team principal Toto Wolff faces criticism over his negotiation tactics.

Yuki Tsunoda of Japan and Oracle Red Bull Racing talks with Laurent Mekies, Team Principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Belgium at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps on July 27, 2025 in Spa, Belgium.
Andrea Stella believes both McLaren drivers are on the same level as past F1 greats he has worked with. Image: XPB Images

Overview

  • Helmut Marko officially confirmed Max Verstappen will remain with Red Bull Racing in 2026 after his performance nullified an exit clause tied to mid-season standings.
  • An exit clause that would have allowed Verstappen to leave if he ranked fourth or lower by the Hungarian Grand Prix became inapplicable when he secured third place at Spa-Francorchamps with an unassailable points gap over George Russell.
  • George Russell has not received a renewal offer from Mercedes as his contract approaches its end, with formal extension talks still ongoing and no agreement finalized.
  • Toto Wolff acknowledged he is exploring future driver lineups and has not ruled out pairing Russell with Verstappen, even as negotiations over Russell’s contract continue.
  • Former world champion Nico Rosberg publicly criticized Wolff’s tactic of becoming unreachable during driver negotiations, intensifying scrutiny of Mercedes’ management approach.