Red Bull Chief Dismisses Concerns Over Verstappen's Contract Clauses
Red Bull's Oliver Mintzlaff says he is not worried about performance clauses in Max Verstappen's contract, expressing full confidence the driver will see out his deal until 2028 and end his career with the team. He cites the team's results, atmosphere, and major investment in its own engine program as reasons for Verstappen's loyalty.
Red Bull GmbH Managing Director Oliver Mintzlaff has expressed confidence that Max Verstappen will remain with the team for the long term, dismissing concerns about potential performance-related exit clauses in the Dutch driver's contract. Mintzlaff emphasized the team's commitment and the positive atmosphere as key factors in securing Verstappen's loyalty, despite ongoing speculation about his future.
Why it matters:
Verstappen's contract runs through 2028, but rumors of performance clauses and potential interest from Mercedes have fueled speculation about an early exit. As the sport approaches a major regulatory reset in 2026, securing the commitment of its star driver is paramount for Red Bull's long-term stability and competitive ambitions. Mintzlaff's public confidence signals the team's belief in its current trajectory and its ability to retain the sport's most dominant driver.
The details:
- Mintzlaff stated he is "not afraid of any performance clause" in Verstappen's contract, arguing that the driver's satisfaction hinges on seeing the team's full commitment.
- He pointed to the team's results and positive atmosphere in 2025 as factors that have impressed Verstappen.
- The Red Bull chief highlighted the significant investment in Red Bull Powertrains as a demonstration of the team's long-term ambition, a unique endeavor for an energy drink brand entering the engine manufacturing arena.
- Mintzlaff expressed a strong belief in mutual loyalty, concluding, "I have no doubt that Max Verstappen will finish his career at Red Bull."
The big picture:
The conversation occurs against the backdrop of the looming 2026 regulation changes, which Verstappen himself has identified as a potential career crossroads. The driver has previously stated that his continued participation in F1 depends on whether the new rules are "nice and fun," suggesting he could retire if they are not. This adds a layer of uncertainty beyond any contractual clauses, making the team's performance and the appeal of the future sporting formula critical to his decision.
What's next:
All eyes will be on Red Bull's development of its 2026 car and power unit. The team's ability to produce a competitive package under the new rules will be the ultimate test of Mintzlaff's confidence. Verstappen's performance and public comments throughout the 2025 season and into 2026 will be closely scrutinized for any shift in his stated commitment to seeing out his contract with the Milton Keynes squad.