Verstappen Stays With Red Bull Through 2026

Max Verstappen has confirmed he will stay with Red Bull Racing through the 2026 Formula 1 season, ending speculation of a move to Mercedes despite a performance-related exit clause in his contract. Verstappen’s third-place in the championship nullified the clause allowing an early exit, and he stated he never intended to leave. Red Bull struggled in 2025 after a dominant 2024, as Verstappen now trails championship leader Oscar Piastri, who recently took victory in Belgium and leads Lando Norris by 16 points. Christian Horner has departed as team principal, with Laurent Mekies now leading the team. Verstappen and Red Bull are focused on upcoming technical regulation changes, aiming to regain competitiveness. The Hungarian Grand Prix will see Piastri return to the scene of his maiden win, while Red Bull continues development efforts.