Max Verstappen will remain at Red Bull: he cannot use his exit clause and feels comfortable with the new changes in the team.

No way out: Verstappen will remain at Red Bull

Even though there's been talk about him maybe going to Mercedes, it looks like Max Verstappen will stay with Red Bull Racing at least until 2028. Even though his brother-in-law Nelson Piquet Jr. hinted at a future team change during a podcast, the contract terms and the current situation in Formula 1 don't let him use his exit clause.
According to Dutch media, Verstappen will not be able to activate the escape clause included in his contract because it depended on his position in the standings before the summer break. Currently, Max is in third place with 185 points, ahead of George Russell, making it impossible for him to break free from his commitment to Red Bull.

Mercedes shuts the door

Following various rumors about a move to Mercedes, Toto Wolff, Mercedes team principal, ruled out any move involving Verstappen. “Our priority is to continue with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli,” he said in recent statements. Thus, the German team is aiming for a future based on its current duo, leaving little room for speculation.

From Spa-Francorchamps, the three-time world champion hinted at his long-term commitment to the energy team. Max anticipates a technical evolution that he wants to experience from within.