Four-time F1 champion Verstappen extends Red Bull contract

Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has extended his contract with Red Bull Racing until the end of the 2030 season. The previous deal of the Dutch driver was set to expire at the end of 2028.

The new signing has put an end to prolonged speculation about Verstappen's future. Amid a difficult season for Red Bull, the driver had been linked with a possible move to Mercedes or McLaren, and there were suggestions that he might leave Formula 1 early.

Verstappen himself said after the extension that Red Bull had become a second family to him. He emphasized that he wants to continue the journey with the team with which he won four consecutive championship titles in 2021-2024.

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies called the extension an important confirmation of mutual trust and the long-term vision of the team. Verstappen has been racing for the main Red Bull team since 2016.

The deal was announced ahead of Verstappen's home Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. In the 2026 season, Red Bull faced difficulties after Formula 1 switched to new technical regulations. At the time of the contract announcement, Verstappen is sixth in the drivers' standings, 110 points behind leader Kimi Antonelli.

Thus, Verstappen added two more seasons to his previous contract. If the deal is fully honored, the Dutchman will remain a Red Bull driver at least until the age of 33.

Based on materials from: The Guardian