Racers from McLaren rely on the race in Hungary for their competition
Max Verstappen Commits to Red Bull Racing Through 2028
Max Verstappen's decision to remain with Red Bull Racing for the 2026 Formula 1 season and beyond has sent ripples through the competitive world of Formula 1. The Dutch driver's contract, which reportedly extends until the end of 2028, puts an end to speculation about a potential move to Mercedes.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull's team adviser, confirmed Verstappen's commitment to the team. This decision comes despite a clause in Verstappen's existing contract that allowed him to leave after 2025 if he ranked fourth or lower in the championship at the summer break. However, Verstappen's third-place ranking means he will stay with Red Bull.
Nico Rosberg, a former Formula 1 champion, urged Mercedes to focus on securing their current drivers given Verstappen's extended stay with Red Bull. Verstappen's agent also emphasized his commitment to the team despite internal changes, such as the replacement of team principal Christian Horner earlier in 2025.
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton, a driver for Mercedes, is reportedly under pressure. After the Belgian Formula 1 race, Hamilton questioned himself despite a good outcome. The crisis of confidence within Mercedes is slowing down their team's performance, causing concern due to their previous industry-leading status.
Hamilton is facing a struggle not just from external sources but also from within himself. This struggle is not a new phenomenon in the world of Formula 1, and Hamilton's pressure is a significant development in the current season, particularly as he competes against Ferrari.
The decision by Verstappen to remain with Red Bull could potentially shift the balance of power in the Formula 1 competition. Mercedes, currently experiencing a slump, may need to rethink their strategies in light of Verstappen's continued stay with Red Bull. The Dutch driver's strength in the competition could make it more challenging for Hamilton to compete against a top-tier driver.
References: [1] Autosport. (2025, August 1). Max Verstappen to stay with Red Bull Racing until 2028. Retrieved from https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/max-verstappen-to-stay-with-red-bull-racing-until-2028/6329525/ [2] BBC Sport. (2025, August 1). Max Verstappen commits to Red Bull until 2028. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/58140404 [3] The Guardian. (2025, August 1). Max Verstappen signs new Red Bull contract to stay with the team until 2028. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/aug/01/max-verstappen-signs-new-red-bull-contract-to-stay-with-the-team-until-2028
Sports enthusiasts will be intrigued by Max Verstappen's decision to stay with Red Bull Racing until 2028, as this commitment could significantly impact the Formula 1 competition. This ongoing association may pose a challenge for Lewis Hamilton, his fierce competitor at Mercedes.
