Max Verstappen has signed a new contract with Red Bull to remain in Formula One until the end of 2030, ending speculation over a possible switch to a rival team or an early retirement.
Max Verstappen has ended speculation about his Formula One future by signing a new contract extension with Red Bull that will keep him at the team until the end of the 2030 season, according to the BBC.
The Dutch driver, a four-time world champion, had been the subject of persistent transfer rumours. Al Jazeera reported that the new deal puts to rest speculation that he would exit the team at the end of 2028.
According to the Guardian, Verstappen had been linked with potential moves to both Mercedes and McLaren. The outlet also reported that he had intimated he might call time on his F1 career because he was unhappy with the new regulations imposed this season and the way they had affected his enjoyment of racing.
Explaining his decision, Verstappen said he came closer to retiring from Formula One than joining a rival team, as reported by Sky Sports and the BBC. “I’m closer to retiring,” he said, “than changing teams,” describing his reasons for extending his commitment to Red Bull.
The Guardian quoted Verstappen describing his relationship with the team, saying: “The team is like a second family for me.” In a video statement carried by Sky Sports, he added that he was “excited to keep working together.”
The announcement was made ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, according to Sky Sports, confirming a long-term future for one of the sport’s most successful current drivers.
Why it matters
Verstappen is one of Formula One's dominant figures, and his future had been a central storyline in the driver market. His decision to stay settles questions about the sport's competitive landscape and keeps a four-time champion tied to Red Bull for years to come.