Four-time Formula One world champion Max Verstappen has ended speculation about a potential switch to Mercedes, confirming on Thursday that he will remain with Red Bull for the 2026 season.
Speaking ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Verstappen said the rumours were unfounded and that his intention had always been to stay.
“I think it’s time to stop all the rumours. For me, it was always quite clear that I was staying,” the Dutchman told reporters. “And that was the general feeling in the team because we are always in discussion about what we could do with the car. When you’re not staying, you stop talking about these kinds of things. And I never did.”
Formula One will enter a new engine era in 2026, with significant technical changes expected to shake up the grid. Mercedes are tipped to be frontrunners, while Red Bull will be racing with their own power units following a split from Honda.
Verstappen, 27, has known break clauses in his Red Bull contract, but none have been activated. The reigning champion is currently third in the standings at the mid-point of the season, having taken two wins from 13 races. His contract with Red Bull runs through to 2028.
The Dutchman’s future had been the subject of speculation, particularly after the recent dismissal of Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. The move was widely seen as an attempt by the energy drinks-backed team to reinforce Verstappen’s commitment.
“Some people just like to stir the pot, some people just like to create drama. But, for me, it’s always been quite clear,” Verstappen said.
Meanwhile, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff indicated last week that his team’s focus remained on retaining current drivers George Russell and Italian teenager Kimi Antonelli, who is expected to be promoted to a race seat.
Russell, whose contract expires at the end of the year, has been managed by Mercedes since he was 16. He said talks over a new deal had begun but were not yet a priority.
“Toto and I have spoken a lot this week but we haven’t spoken once about the contract because we’re both trying to solve the car’s performance,” said Russell at the Hungaroring. “I want to enjoy the summer break and I don’t want to be thinking about contracts. There isn’t really a major time pressure now from my side, nor from Mercedes’ side.”