Verstappen Confirms He’ll Honor Red Bull Deal Through 2028, Mourns Marko’s Exit
Max Verstappen says he will stay with Red Bull until his 2028 contract expires, rules out a team switch, and admits he'll miss long‑time mentor Helmut Marko, while hinting at MotoGP after his F1 career.
Max Verstappen has reaffirmed his commitment to Red Bull, saying he will honor his contract that runs to the end of 2028. He also noted he will miss long‑time senior advisor Helmut Marko, who departs after 2025, and hinted that post‑F1 could include MotoGP or other series.
Why it matters:
- Verstappen staying removes speculation about a Mercedes move and gives Red Bull continuity ahead of the 2026 regulation overhaul.
- Marko’s exit ends a key talent‑development role that shaped the current driver line‑up.
- The long‑term deal influences sponsor planning and Red Bull’s development roadmap through 2028.
The details:
- Contract: Runs through 2028; Verstappen, 28, rules out a team change.
- 2025 season: Runner‑up by two points, six wins after the Dutch GP and a podium in every post‑summer race.
- Peer vote: Voted best driver of 2025 by fellow racers and team principals.
- Helmut Marko: Leaving after 2025; he was crucial in promoting Verstappen to F1 at 17.
- GT3 programme: Switched to Mercedes machinery for 2026; earned a Nürburgring Ring Licence.
- Future racing: Verstappen said “even MotoGP could get me excited” as a possible post‑F1 path.
What's next:
Red Bull will debut a Ford‑powered power unit under the 2026 rules, and keeping Verstappen on board should smooth the transition to the new chassis and tyre package.
Outside F1, his GT3 activities and MotoGP interest suggest he will stay involved in motorsport, possibly as a team principal or owner, once his driving career ends.