Verstappen has options for 2026 but prioritizes Red Bull recovery
10/15/2024 01:18 PM
Max Verstappen has hinted at the possibility of leaving Red Bull at the end of 2025, but for now, the Dutchman's main focus remains on helping his current team regain its position at the top of F1
Red Bull's 2024 campaign has been unexpectedly challenging, with rival McLaren overhauling the Milton Keynes-based outfit in the Constructors' standings despite Verstappen's strong opening stretch.
This dip in form has raised concerns about the team's trajectory heading into 2025 and beyond, casting doubt on whether it can revive the lustre it enjoyed at the outset of F1's ground-effect rules in 2022.
Verstappen is theoretically contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028, but if the bulls' struggles continue next year, the three-time world champion could be tempted to activate an exit clause at the end of 2025 and open a new chapter in his career with a rival outfit.
Formula 1's regulation reset ahead of 2026 only adds to this uncertainty, making Verstappen's potential departure all the more plausible.
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Asked recently about the freedom he could have at the end of 2025 that would allow him to explore other options, Verstappen was candid but nonchalant.
"Yes, of course, I know it's possible [that he could leave Red Bull], but I'm not really thinking about it right now," he said.
"I think at the moment I have enough to worry about with other things we want to do better. We will see what happens in the future.
"At the moment I am not really thinking about it too much, to be honest. But if it doesn't happen, then so be it. It won't change my life."
©RedBull
Grand Prix racing's looming regulation changes, which include a completely new car design and engine formula, have left even the best teams unsure about how they will adapt.
While acknowledging that uncertainty, Verstappen emphasized that Red Bull isn't alone in facing the unknowns of F1's 2026 regulation platform.
"Of course it is [a question mark], but you can say that about everyone," he said. "It's a completely new car and engine. It's a question mark for everyone, also for the people who think they are in the best position right now.
"There's always the question of whether you really did such a great job and it will stay that way," he added, pointing out that no team can afford to rest on its laurels.
While 2026 may offer Verstappen flexibility in his career choices, the 61-time Grand Prix winner's current aim is to ensure Red Bull remains the team to beat.
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