Max Verstappen Fires Red Bull Warning: "Next R...read more

Max Verstappen Fires Red Bull Warning: “Next Races Important for My Future”

Formula 1 superstar Max Verstappen has thrown fresh doubt over his long-term future with Red Bull, warning that the upcoming races will be critical in shaping his decision about whether to remain with the team beyond 2025.

The three-time world champion has been at the heart of swirling speculation about a potential exit from the Milton Keynes-based outfit, especially following a turbulent 2024 season marred by internal team politics and a notable drop in performance. Red Bull, once the undisputed force on the grid, has struggled to match the pace of McLaren, who have emerged as the dominant contender in the early stages of the 2025 season.

Verstappen has only secured one victory in the first six races, a stark contrast to his previous campaigns of dominance. As a result, questions are being raised not only about Red Bull’s ability to provide a championship-winning car moving forward, but also about whether Verstappen still sees his future tied to the team with which he has achieved so much success.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with De Telegraaf, Verstappen candidly addressed the uncertainty surrounding his plans:

“It’s a bit difficult to estimate,” he said. “Next year everything will be new in the sport again. And everyone can say that they know who has the best credentials, but nobody knows for sure.”

The Dutch driver was referring to the sweeping technical regulation changes set to be introduced in 2026, a major reset for the sport that could significantly alter the competitive order. Teams will have to adapt to new car designs and power unit specifications, with tire performance likely playing a bigger role than ever.

Verstappen noted McLaren’s current advantage in this area:

“The only team that has it best at the moment is McLaren. The cars and engines will change next year, but if you keep such an advantage with the tyres, then that is significant and then it will be the same next year.”

Although McLaren has been touted as a possible destination for Verstappen, a move to Woking seems improbable in the short term. Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are locked into long-term contracts, leaving little room for Verstappen unless there’s a dramatic shakeup.

Verstappen remains under contract with Red Bull until 2028, following a massive extension signed during his championship reign. However, persistent rumors suggest that the contract may include performance-based exit clauses — providing Verstappen a potential escape route if the team can no longer deliver a competitive package.

The Dutchman admitted that the idea of his future is never far from his mind:

“I always think and have thought about my future,” Verstappen revealed. “Even in the good years. On the other hand, I think I am quite calm about it at the moment.”

While Verstappen emphasized that he is not panicking about the current situation, his comments send a clear signal: Red Bull must deliver, and fast. With Mercedes rebuilding, Aston Martin investing heavily, and McLaren soaring, the competition is closing in and Verstappen’s loyalty may not be indefinite.

As Formula 1 braces for another seismic shift in 2026, the next few months could prove pivotal not just for Verstappen’s career, but for the balance of power in the entire sport. Red Bull’s response to his warning will be closely watched as the paddock prepares for a potentially explosive driver market.