P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen will remain with Red Bull next season, despite the team no longer being a dominant F1 outfit.
Formula 1 commentator Alex Jacques believes Max Verstappen has accepted that Red Bull is in a rebuilding phase and would have left the team if he hadn’t come to terms with it. Verstappen confirmed he will stay with Red Bull for 2026, putting an end to Mercedes switch rumors. However, Red Bull is no longer as dominant as it was a year ago, with significant changes underway. Team principal Laurent Mekies leads the recovery effort, which could take multiple seasons. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has ruled Verstappen out of this year’s title fight due to struggles and McLaren’s strength. Despite new parts for remaining races, Red Bull is also focusing on becoming a powertrain supplier under new regulations next year. Max Verstappen could face challenges in the current campaign, but hopes for visible progress from Red Bull amidst their rebuilding phase.
