P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Verstappen signs blockbuster new deal…but not with Red Bull
“Four-time F1 champion Max Verstappen has signed an exclusive partnership with Fanatics to open a global online store selling his licensed merchandise and trading cards, marking a significant development separate from his Red Bull team.
At 28, Verstappen remains a highly sought-after figure in F1, positioning him among the sport’s most influential athletes with a devoted global fan base eager to support him as he gears up for the 2026 comeback season.
This pioneering collaboration with Fanatics makes Verstappen the first active athlete to establish a personal online store with the digital retailer, set to launch in early 2026 with an array of official merchandise.
Fans can still access official Red Bull F1 gear on the Fanatics website while eagerly awaiting the debut of the new Verstappen collection.
As a key figure in Formula 1, Verstappen’s alliance with Fanatics signifies a groundbreaking move in the realm of athlete partnerships, offering supporters worldwide faster access to exclusive products celebrating the champion’s successes on and off the track.
By teaming up with Fanatics, Verstappen aims to provide his fans with unique and authentic items tied to his journey in motorsport, promising a global merchandise experience that encapsulates the essence of his racing legacy.”
