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P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen’s pathway to Mercedes has just become significantly more difficult.
Max Verstappen will stay at Red Bull for the 2026 F1 season, as his contract’s exit clause has expired. The clause allowed him to leave if he was outside the top three in the drivers’ standings by the summer break. He is now locked into third place after finishing fourth at the Belgian Grand Prix. Verstappen’s lead over George Russell makes it difficult for Mercedes to secure his move to their team. Despite being contracted to Red Bull until 2028, there is still a possibility of him joining Mercedes in 2027 if Red Bull falls behind in the new F1 regulations era. Verstappen’s confirmed participation with Red Bull for 2026.
