Despite a contract running until the end of 2028, Max Verstappen has no intention of immediately extending his commitment with Red Bull. The quadruple world champion first wants to determine if he wishes to continue his Formula 1 career after this deadline.
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While Ferrari has just announced the extension of Charles Leclerc, the question of a new commitment for Max Verstappen with Red Bull was naturally raised in the Monaco paddock.
But the Dutchman quickly closed the door to any imminent discussion.
“I haven’t signed a new contract for a while, but that’s not my main concern right now,” Verstappen explained to the media this Thursday in Monaco.
The Red Bull driver reminds that he still has a solid contract for the next two seasons: “I still have two years left on my contract.”
The future after 2028 remains uncertain
More than the duration of his current commitment, it is especially his long-term future that remains unclear.
For several weeks, Verstappen has been multiplying his criticisms of the engine regulations introduced this season, particularly concerning the equal distribution between thermal and electric power.
The world champion has already hinted that remaining in F1 beyond 2028 would largely depend on the evolution of these rules.
“I must first decide for myself if I want to continue a little longer after 2028,” he declared.
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A response full of irony
Asked about Red Bull’s possible desire to see him extend his contract now, Verstappen responded with humor.
“That’s why I’m not in a hurry. Otherwise, I would have already signed a contract until 2040!” he joked.
A statement that perfectly illustrates the Dutchman’s state of mind: no urgency, no pressure, and a reflection that goes far beyond simple contractual negotiations.
For Verstappen, the future will depend above all on the direction Formula 1 takes in the coming years.
Even though he recently welcomed the FIA’s openness and the discussions initiated with the drivers, he continues to consider the current regulations as a hindrance to the spectacle and driving.
Red Bull will therefore probably have to wait before getting an answer about the future of its star, whose commitment after 2028 is far from guaranteed.
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