Max Verstappen remains unfazed by the recent rumours linking him to Mercedes, firmly reaffirming his commitment to Red Bull in Formula 1 for the foreseeable future.
The Dutchman has been the subject of paddock gossip over the last few weeks, after George Russell revealed Mercedes were in talks to sign the reiging World Champion.
A report from Italian media ahead of the British Grand Prix suggested there have been ‘concrete negotiations’ between the two camps.
However, Verstappen has remained tight-lipped on the speculation, choosing not to escalate the situation.
“I have nothing else to add compared to what I said last week, to be honest,” he told media including Motorsport Week.
“Last week, we didn’t have a great result. I think it was not a great weekend, but also a bit unlucky in general.
“I don’t say, of course, that we would be challenging McLaren, but we could have had a decent result.
“And everything that I said that week is still the same. Nothing has changed from my side.”
The 2025 campaign has been somewhat disappointing for the 27-year-old, with just two wins so far — both achieved through impressive pole laps in Imola and Japan.
Meanwhile, the McLaren drivers have surged ahead, building an unassailable lead in the Drivers’ Championship.
Red Bull has had to grapple with balance issues throughout the season, hampering its overall performance and potentially the future of its star driver.
However, when asked about the risks of switching teams in 2026 amid new regulations, Verstappen was clear: “That’s why I’m contracted to Red Bull.”
He was then asked about the potential of an exit clause, to which he declined to comment: “I’m not speaking about my contract.”
Verstappen stays tight-lipped on 2026 plans amid Red Bull contract questions
After reaffirming his contract position with Red Bull, Verstappen was asked what truly keeps him loyal to the team.
“There is no decision at the moment; for me, it’s not about 26 or whatever,” he added. “I just focus on what I have ahead of me, work with the team.
“Of course, a lot of people make up assumptions, but that’s not me.”
Pressed to confirm whether he will race for Red Bull in 2026, Verstappen kept his response consistent.
“Like I said last week, that’s all that I have to say about it.”
Russell faced similar questions about his contract situation on Thursday, firmly stating he isn’t ‘going anywhere’.
The British driver stirred the pot when he revealed talks between Mercedes and Verstappen’s camp, prompting sharp responses from Christian Horner and Helmut Marko targeting Russell’s comments.
Amid the drama, Verstappen has stayed out of the public spat, focusing instead on turning around his challenging season — currently 61 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri.
READ MORE – McLaren CEO: Max Verstappen ‘carrying’ Red Bull as Mercedes rumours deepen
