Report: Verstappen holds performance-based exit clauses for 2026 and 2027
Max Verstappen reportedly holds performance-based exit clauses allowing him to leave Red Bull after 2026 or 2027 if specific championship conditions aren't met by the summer break.
A report from German publication Bild suggests Max Verstappen has specific performance-related exit clauses embedded in his Red Bull contract. These stipulations could allow the three-time world champion to terminate his deal early if the team fails to meet competitive benchmarks during the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
Why it matters:
With the 2026 regulations overhaul looming and the new Red Bull-Ford power unit yet to prove itself on track, Verstappen’s future is the single biggest variable in the driver market. These clauses effectively protect the driver's legacy, ensuring he isn't tied to a struggling team while he remains in his prime. It places immense pressure on the Milton Keynes squad to deliver a competitive car immediately under the new technical rules, or risk losing their star asset.
The details:
- 2026 Exit Option: According to the report, Verstappen can leave at the end of 2026 if he is not at least second in the Drivers' Championship by the start of the summer break in late July.
- 2027 Exit Option: The condition reportedly tightens for the following season. If he is not leading the championship by the end of July 2027, he has the unilateral right to walk away.
- Management Confidence: Despite the contractual specifics, Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff remains unconcerned about a potential departure. He emphasized the "bond" formed through their shared success and four world titles, noting that Verstappen knows the value of the platform Red Bull provides.
Looking ahead:
The 2026 season represents a massive technical gamble for all teams, but particularly for Red Bull as they integrate Ford power. If the new engine fails to match the performance of rivals like Mercedes or Ferrari, Verstappen might not hesitate to trigger these clauses. Such a move would spark a seismic shift in the F1 grid, potentially opening the door for a shock move to Mercedes or Aston Martin.