Max Verstappen has ended speculation about his future after signing a contract until 2030 as the four-time F1 world champion says it’s ‘something I have always wanted to do’
Max Verstappen has ended speculation about his future after signing a new contract until 2030.
The four-time F1 world champion had been the subject of intense rumours about his future after being linked with moves to Mercedes and McLaren, as well as potentially quitting F1 completely.
However, the 28-year-old, who was previously under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, has committed to the Milton Keynes-based team by penning new terms until the end of 2030.
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Verstappen’s previous contract included clauses that would allow him to leave at the end of the current F1 season if he wished. It’s not clear if any similar clauses have been included in his new agreement.
Speaking about his new contract, Verstappen said: “We have the best people and I’m excited to keep working together with everyone to get back to the top again.
“This remains the ultimate goal that all of us have been working towards and will continue to pursue. I have always said it: the team is like a second family for me and I feel very at home.
“I came to the team hoping to be able to win races. What we went on to achieve together has been simply lovely and we have shared many incredible moments and won four World Championships.
“To continue this journey with the same team that I have been with my whole career is really special and something I have always wanted to do.”
Red Bull have endured a difficult start to the season and Verstappen has voiced his frustration at the early season progress, as well as taking aim at the new F1 regulations.
Verstappen’s best finishes this season have been two second places, in Austria and Hungary. He narrowly missed out on an incredible fifth successive world title last year, losing out to Lando Norris by two points.
His late season charge came under the stewardship of Laurent Mekies, who replaced the sacked Christian Horner as Team Principal last July.
“Getting to work with Laurent now for over a year has also been great, I see a clear vision he has for the team,” Verstappen added.
“Everyone in Milton Keynes believes in what we are building and I am looking forward to the next chapter, fighting for more victories and competing for championships as we continue to shape the future of this team.”