Max Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull extends through 2028 but includes a performance-based escape clause that permitted him to exit early if he ranked outside the top three in the drivers’ championship by the summer break each year. The clause was pivotal because it gave the four-time World Champion flexibility to reassess his position annually based on the team's competitiveness and his personal goals.

Following the intense race weekend at Spa-Francorchamps, Verstappen secured his place in the top three standings so firmly that he can no longer fall to fourth or lower by the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix and the Formula 1 summer shutdown.

Specifically, Verstappen’s victory in the sprint race and solid finish in the main event gave him a points cushion of 28 over fourth-placed George Russell of Mercedes—more points than Russell could possibly make up before the break. Since only 25 points can be earned in a race weekend, the gap effectively locked Verstappen into third place, thus invalidating the exit clause for 2026.

This mathematical certainty was confirmed by multiple sources close to the paddock and was reinforced when Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko publicly confirmed that Verstappen will drive for the team in 2026.

Verstappen’s Commitment Amid Team Changes and Future Speculation

The news comes at a significant moment for Red Bull, which recently experienced a shakeup in leadership with the dismissal of Christian Horner as team principal, replaced by Laurent Mekies. Despite this turbulence, Verstappen’s commitment remains firm, showing confidence in the team’s direction and reinforcing the strong driver-team relationship that has powered four World Championships.

While Verstappen’s 2026 season with Red Bull is now assured, speculation about his longer-term future beyond that remains open. The upcoming regulatory changes in Formula 1 expected in 2026 and 2027 will be crucial in determining whether Verstappen continues with the Milton Keynes squad or explores other opportunities.

Industry insiders suggest that if Red Bull’s performance wanes during the new regulations era, Verstappen may reconsider his options after 2026, but for now, he is focused on defending his title and contributing to Red Bull’s success.

Stability for Red Bull and Verstappen’s Championship Aspirations

With the exit clause history behind him, Verstappen enters the second half of the 2025 season and the 2026 campaign securely tied to Red Bull. Verstappen’s decision to remain underscores his belief in Red Bull’s capabilities despite challenges and affirms his role as the franchise’s cornerstone driver.

As Formula 1 evolves, this confirmed partnership serves as a major storyline, setting the stage for a potentially historic era that could see Verstappen continue his championship mastery while Red Bull adapts and innovates.