Helmut Marko has officially stated that Max Verstappen will continue with Red Bull for the upcoming season, opting to stay loyal to his current team. Despite attracting interest from Mercedes, the four-time Formula 1 champion decided against switching teams for the 2026 season.
Verstappen’s decision was reportedly made during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, where he achieved a surprising victory in the Sprint race but finished fourth in the main event behind the McLaren duo and Charles Leclerc.
According to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Verstappen is content with Red Bull’s current structure and is impressed by the early collaboration with the new team principal, Laurent Mekies, who took over from Christian Horner.
Even if Verstappen had wanted to leave Red Bull in 2025, it would have been a complex process due to contractual obligations. His release clause would have been activated only if he was fourth or lower in the drivers’ championship by the mid-season break, but his performance at Spa-Francorchamps secured him third place.
In an interview at the Belgian GP, Marko assured that Verstappen will not be departing before the 2026 season. This decision has significant implications for Mercedes, who were strongly linked with Verstappen as a potential recruit.
With Verstappen out of the equation, George Russell is expected to commit to a long-term future with Mercedes. Contract discussions with Russell are progressing, with reports suggesting a lucrative multi-year extension valued at £30 million annually, positioning him as one of the highest-paid drivers on the grid after Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.
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Russell’s reported salary increase seems well-deserved, considering his strong performance and leadership qualities within the team. Meanwhile, Kimi Antonelli’s debut season has been challenging, with the young Italian facing pressure after several disappointing finishes. Unlike Russell, there are no current indications of a new contract for Antonelli as his current deal approaches its end.