According to Motorsport.com, a clause in Max Verstappen’s contract will allow him to exit Red Bull for 2026 if he finishes outside the top four of the Formula 1 world drivers’ championship after the Austrian Grand Prix weekend. Verstappen is currently in third place, well ahead of fifth-placed Charles Leclerc, and the clause may become void if he maintains a significant points margin by the Spanish Grand Prix.
The Dutch driver’s contract was reportedly revised amid the power struggles at Red Bull last year, with the exit clause tied to Helmut Marko now reportedly null and void. Speculations linking Verstappen to Aston Martin have decreased, while rumors of a potential move to Mercedes have gained traction as George Russell’s contract talks prolong.
If Verstappen secures a 50-point lead over Leclerc or the fifth-placed driver by the end of the Barcelona weekend, his stay at Red Bull for 2026 could be assured with two races to go before the deadline. Mercedes is optimistic about resolving talks with Russell soon, amid his impressive performances in 2025, potentially driving up his market value for negotiations with the team. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has expressed confidence in reaching a swift agreement with Russell during or after the Spanish Grand Prix weekend.
