What's next for Max Verstappen's F1 career?
Max Verstappen's F1 future is shrouded in speculation despite his Red Bull contract running through 2028. The key factors are a rumored performance clause, the team's competitive form, and—most crucially—whether the three-time champion finds the sport's next regulatory era in 2026 enjoyable enough to continue.
Max Verstappen's future in Formula 1 remains an open question, with his long-term commitment to Red Bull and the sport itself under constant speculation. While under contract through 2028, the possibility of an early exit clause and his own comments about leaving if the sport becomes unenjoyable create significant uncertainty around the three-time champion's next move.
Why it matters:
Verstappen is the sport's dominant force and biggest star. His career decisions have the power to reshape the competitive landscape, influence the driver market for years, and impact the commercial appeal of F1. Whether he stays, moves, or retires will be one of the defining stories of the upcoming regulatory era.
The details:
- Contractual Status: Verstappen is signed with Red Bull Racing until the end of the 2028 season, one of the longest and most lucrative deals on the grid.
- The Performance Clause: Persistent rumors suggest a clause tied to Red Bull's competitive performance could allow Verstappen an early exit, a theory fueled by earlier links to Mercedes when the team faced internal turmoil.
- The Enjoyment Factor: Beyond contracts, Verstappen has repeatedly stated that his continued participation hinges on whether he finds the next generation of F1 cars and regulations engaging and fun to drive.
The big picture:
Verstappen's career is at a potential inflection point. Having achieved his ultimate goal of multiple world championships with Red Bull, his motivations may be shifting. The 2026 regulation overhaul presents a natural reset—a project that could either reignite his competitive fire or, if the formula is not to his liking, provide a logical exit point. His decision will signal whether he is motivated by the challenge of a new era or content with his legacy as constructed.
What's next:
All eyes will be on Red Bull's development trajectory and Verstappen's public demeanor through 2025 and into the 2026 preseason.
- If Red Bull builds a dominant car for the new rules, a contract extension becomes the most likely path.
- If another team—like a resurgent Ferrari or Mercedes—emerges with a superior package, the performance clause rumors will intensify.
- Ultimately, Verstappen's choice may come down to a personal calculation of challenge versus contentment, making his future one of the least predictable elements in F1's immediate horizon.