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Verstappen Confirms Red Bull Stay for 2026 but Ferrari Talks Revealed
Max Verstappen has officially confirmed that he will remain with Red Bull Racing for the 2026 Formula 1 season, ending months of speculation about a possible switch. The Dutch driver, who has already secured four world titles with the team, described the choice to continue as “a very simple decision,” despite Red Bull facing a challenging season marked by inconsistent performance and rumors of unrest within the camp.
While Verstappen’s future at Red Bull is now secured, new details from his father, Jos Verstappen, have added an unexpected twist. Speaking to Dutch broadcaster Viaplay, Jos admitted that the Verstappen camp had been in contact with multiple rival teams this year, including Ferrari and Mercedes. He explained that although discussions with other teams happen frequently, 2025 saw “a little more” conversations than usual, largely because of the uncertainty surrounding Red Bull in the early part of the season.
Jos emphasized that while rumors often spiral out of control, there is some truth behind them. “We always talk about Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull. It’s only logical because those are the three teams capable of competing at the very top,” he explained. He also noted that while he and manager Raymond Vermeulen help weigh the options, the final say on career decisions always rests with Max himself.
The revelation that Ferrari had been part of these talks is significant, as it is the first time the Italian outfit has been openly named as a genuine contender for Verstappen’s signature. However, practical hurdles make such a move complicated. Ferrari already have Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc signed through 2026, meaning a switch would require a major reshuffle in their driver lineup. For now, Ferrari appear committed to continuing with their current pairing.
Ultimately, Verstappen’s long-term future will depend heavily on how teams adapt to the sweeping regulation changes coming in 2026. The Dutchman has made it clear that performance is his top priority, and if another team proves stronger under the new rules, he could reconsider his options once his current commitment expires.
At Red Bull, Verstappen will be working closely with new team principal Laurent Mekies, who replaced Christian Horner earlier this year. Mekies has spoken highly of Verstappen’s influence both on and off the track and is optimistic about restoring Red Bull’s dominance. Verstappen, for his part, appears aligned with the new leadership and is eager to push the team back to the top.
For now, the confirmation of his 2026 stay puts an end to speculation of an immediate move. Still, with both Mercedes and Ferrari keeping close watch and Verstappen’s camp acknowledging active discussions, the door remains open for future changes. As the 2026 regulation era begins, Verstappen’s ultimate destination will likely depend on who builds the fastest car—and Red Bull will need to deliver if they want to keep their star driver beyond his current deal.
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