Max Verstappen continues to be the subject of exit rumours as Red Bull’s 2025 campaign fails to match their recent dominance, prompting fresh questions about his future.
Verstappen’s link to Red Bull has produced four consecutive championships, but a sluggish start to the year – and a growing gap to leader Oscar Piastri – have intensified speculation that the Dutchman could look for a change.
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Although Verstappen’s current contract runs through 2028, it’s become clear he holds significant leverage over his future. He reportedly has a performance-related exit clause that would allow him to walk away if Red Bull doesn’t meet certain standards.
The Red Bull driver is 43 points behind runaway leader Oscar Piastri, meaning his future is increasingly up in the air.
Interest from Mercedes and Aston Martin Fuels Speculation
Mercedes and Aston Martin have reportedly shown interest in Verstappen, hoping to tempt him into their projects. Ferrari, meanwhile, appear content with Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton and are not actively pursuing the Dutchman.
Verstappen has reportedly ruled out joining Aston Martin, even though Adrian Newey and Honda have now joined the team. According to Sky Sports’ Craig Slater, Verstappen and Newey were not always closely aligned at Red Bull, despite their on-track success.
Departure Talks Intensify Ahead of Austrian Grand Prix
Speaking on Ted’s Podbook, he explained: “He also pointed out that he did not want to comment on Perez’s claim that since Adrian Newey has gone, that’s been the trigger of all Red Bull’s issues.
“People tell me that they did not have… I’m not saying Max and Adrian Newey had a kind of problem relationship at Red Bull.
“But I’m not sure that they were the closest of companions in arms, if you like. That’s been expressed to me.”
Slater clarified that, while there was no bad blood, the pair had different approaches and weren’t particularly close outside of work. Professionally, however, mutual respect was believed to be intact.
Even if Aston Martin is off the table for Verstappen, signs are growing that he is contemplating a departure from Red Bull – potentially as soon as the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix.
Mercedes are yet to tie down George Russell and Kimi Antonelli to new contracts for 2026, and while Toto Wolff is believed to be happy with his current drivers, Verstappen’s availability could change any existing plans.
With new regulations approaching and Mercedes tipped to have the most powerful engine for 2026, Verstappen faces a difficult decision about whether Red Bull can still meet his championship ambitions.
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