Max Verstappen Commits to Red Bull for Formula 1 2025 Amid Speculation
Formula 1 news: Max Verstappen has finally put to rest speculation about his future with Red Bull, confirming that he will indeed be racing for the team in Formula 1 2025.
The Dutch driver’s commitment comes after a period of uncertainty, which emerged at the Jeddah round, surrounding his potential departure from the team where he has won three world titles and taken 61 grand prix victories.
The situation arose amidst Red Bull’s early 2024 management war, which involved an investigation into team principal Christian Horner’s behavior towards a female employee. Verstappen’s strong backing of Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko further fueled the speculation.
“I think I’ve said this before… I mean, naturally, of course, people are talking, but it’s most important just that we have a very competitive car for the future.”
However, with Marko resolving his immediate future with Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff, the likelihood of Verstappen leaving the team has diminished significantly. Nevertheless, Mercedes’ efforts to entice him away from Red Bull have been a topic of interest.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff recently stated that “it’s a kind of a relationship that needs to happen at a certain stage” when asked about the possibility of Verstappen joining Mercedes. Wolff also clarified that there were “no talks that are taking place at this stage” and that the team needed to focus on improving their car.
Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius hinted at the possibility of signing Verstappen, citing the 2026 engine rule changes as an opportunity.
When further pressed to provide a clear ‘yes or no’ answer on whether he would be racing at Red Bull in 2025, Verstappen finally provided a definitive response: “OK, yes. And that’s what I said – we’re already working on next year’s car. I think when you’re very focused on that, it means that you’re also driving for the team.”
While Verstappen’s answer provides clarity on his current commitment to Red Bull, it does not rule out the possibility of him trying to force an exit before his contract ends in 2028. This uncertainty may be why Mercedes is yet to announce Andrea Kimi Antonelli as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement for 2025.
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