P1racenews AI automatic summary:
A huge update in Max Verstappen’s future at the Red Bull F1 team has emerged.
Max Verstappen is reportedly set to trigger a clause in his Red Bull contract keeping him at the team for the 2026 F1 season, with an exit clause potentially closing if he remains in the top four of the drivers’ championship by the end of June, according to Motorsport.
As of now, Verstappen is third in the world championship standings, 25 points behind Oscar Piastri and 57 points clear of Charles Leclerc, making it likely that he will secure the top four position before the Austrian Grand Prix.
Speculation about Verstappen’s future has been ongoing for over a year, with Mercedes previously interested in signing him but now focusing on their current driver lineup of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.
Aston Martin, led by former Red Bull designer Adrian Newey, has also been mentioned as a possible destination for Verstappen, who is known for pursuing the fastest car to showcase his talents in the sport.
