Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull has been a topic of discussion for some time, and fresh details have come to light regarding the performance-based exit clauses in his contract.
Since signing him as a 16-year-old in 2014, Helmut Marko has remained one of Max Verstappen’s most consistent supporters.
Marko, who noticed similarities between Verstappen and Jochen Rindt before making the move official, watched as the Dutchman fulfilled that early promise by becoming a four-time world champion by age 27.
Over his two decades at Milton Keynes, Marko made several moves that raised eyebrows among his peers. But perhaps none was more controversial than one tied to Verstappen’s long-term future with the team.
Helmut Marko Raised Eyebrows at Red Bull by Approving Verstappen’s Exit Clause Terms
BILD has provided new insight into Verstappen’s contract situation at Red Bull, and the details explain why there’s been tension within the team over his future.
According to the report, Verstappen’s current deal runs through 2028 and includes a performance-based release clause that becomes easier to trigger over time.
By 2027, that changes, he can activate the clause if he isn’t leading the F1 standings by midseason.
The agreement was struck in 2022, with Helmut Marko playing a key role in getting it over the line with Red Bull’s leadership.
The German outlet noted that few inside Red Bull expect Verstappen to actually use the clause, even if he qualifies for it.
Max Verstappen reaffirms his commitment to Red Bull in recent comments
Verstappen’s contract does include a clear path out of Red Bull, but he seems to have moved on from the frustration that was noticeable during the 2025 season. He’s now spoken openly about wanting to stay with the team until his deal runs out.
In a recent interview, Verstappen made it clear he has no plans to leave Red Bull before his contract expires in 2028. That won’t be welcome news for Mercedes, and especially not for Toto Wolff.
The Silver Arrows boss has been keen on Verstappen’s abilities since before he even made his F1 debut back in 2015.
Wolff has tried more than once to bring him over from Red Bull, but so far nothing has come of it, and that doesn’t look likely to change anytime soon.
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