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Helmut Marko has confirmed Max Verstappen will remain at Red Bull next year – but what does it mean for Mercedes, who was seeking to sign the four-time champion?
Early this week, Helmut Marko of Red Bull confirmed that Max Verstappen will stay with the team in 2026, dispelling speculation about a move to Mercedes. Rumors of Verstappen leaving Red Bull were fueled by a contract clause allowing departure if he wasn’t in the top three before the summer break. However, with one race left, Verstappen is secure in third due to the gap to George Russell. The clause may not have been the key factor; many doubted he wouldn’t make the top three even amid Mercedes rumors. While Mercedes has shown slipping form, Toto Wolff’s interest in Verstappen has been clear, but Mercedes seems set on retaining Russell and Antonelli for the upcoming era.
