P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull runs until 2028 and is known to feature a number of performance-based clauses.
Max Verstappen is close to meeting a performance clause in his Red Bull contract, preventing him from leaving this year. His contract is set to end in 2028, and his future with Red Bull and in F1 is uncertain, with Aston Martin eyeing the four-time world champion. One clause in his contract states he must be in the top three of the drivers’ championship by summer, a requirement he currently fulfills. If he maintains this position, any potential exit from Red Bull this year would be off the table. Although Verstappen had previously indicated he would stay with Red Bull in 2026, speculation about his future persists due to uncertainties surrounding the team’s car competitiveness and the 2026 rule changes. While Mercedes was linked to Verstappen, a contract renewal for George Russell suggests they won’t be an alternative if he leaves Red Bull.
