Max Verstappen Rejects Mercedes Interest, Commits to Red Bull for 2025 Formula 1 Season
Verstappen Reaffirms Loyalty to Red Bull
Amidst speculation surrounding his potential move to Mercedes, reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has reaffirmed his commitment to Red Bull, citing that he is already working with the team on next year’s car. Verstappen’s statement comes as a blow to Mercedes, who had openly expressed interest in signing the Dutch driver to replace Lewis Hamilton, who is bound for Ferrari in 2025.
“You didn’t get that out of my answer before.” – Max Verstappen
Mercedes’ Pursuit of Verstappen
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff had previously identified Verstappen as his top candidate to fill the void left by Hamilton, with CEO Ola Kallenius recently admitting that Verstappen “would look good in silver.” However, Verstappen has consistently maintained that he is not entertaining offers from other teams, reiterating his stance ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix.
Verstappen’s Focus on Red Bull’s Future
When pressed for a concrete answer on his 2025 plans, Verstappen emphasized that his focus is on working with Red Bull to improve their car for the future, stating, “We’re already also working on next year’s car, you know. I think when you’re very focused on that, that means that you’re also driving for the team.”
Verstappen dismissed suggestions that McLaren’s recent resurgence could prompt him to consider a move, instead choosing to concentrate on ironing out Red Bull’s limitations this season. “I don’t think that’s how Formula 1 works, where then suddenly you could say, ‘well, bye, guys’,” he explained. “I have a long contract with the team. I’m very happy where I’m at.”
A Long-Term Commitment to Red Bull
The 25-year-old champion has been with Red Bull’s parent team since 2016 and is determined to continue their partnership, saying, “Like I said before, we are focusing also already on next year with things that we can implement on the car. So I guess that should say enough for where I’m driving next year.”
With Verstappen’s future now seemingly set, attention turns to the remaining seats available on the 2025 Formula 1 grid. As the season heats up, fans can expect more dramatic twists and turns in the world of Formula 1 news.
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