Max Verstappen has expressed he is prioritising helping Red Bull to solve its current issues rather than considering which Formula 1 teams he could move to in 2026.
Red Bull‘s decline in results and impending exodus has prompted rumours that Verstappen could seek a premature exit from a long-term deal that runs through 2028.
The speculation regarding Verstappen’s prospects has heightened since Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko disclosed that the Dutchman’s contract includes exit clauses.
Mercedes has been in the running to sign Verstappen, although boss Toto Wolff has claimed that he will stop his public persuasion now its 2025 line-up is confirmed.
But while he has acknowledged that there are options available in case he opts to depart, Verstappen has insisted that his attention is on Red Bull recovering its form.
Asked whether he relished having external opportunities, Verstappen told Autosport: “Yes, of course, I know it’s possible, but I’m not really thinking about it right now.
“I think at the moment I have enough to worry about with other things we want to do better.
“We will see what happens in the future. At the moment I am not really thinking about it too much, to be honest.
“But if it doesn’t happen, then so be it. It won’t change my life.”
Scepticism over Red Bull’s 2026 prospects
Verstappen’s choice is poised to centre around who he perceives will represent his strongest bet to continue achieving success upon F1’s regulation overhaul in 2026.
There have been numerous question marks over how Red Bull will cope as it teams up with American automotive brand Ford to assemble a first-ever in-house engine.
Meanwhile, Honda, who have powered Verstappen to three successive F1 titles, will partner with Aston Martin, who have poached Red Bull design guru Adrian Newey.
However, Verstappen has argued that Red Bull shouldn’t be the sole recipient of scepticism surrounding its 2026 chances with the substantial changes in the pipeline.
“Of course, it is [a question mark], but you can say that about everyone,” he retorted. “It’s a completely new car and engine.
“It’s a question mark for everyone, also for the people who think they are in the best position right now.
“There’s always the question of whether you really did such a great job, and it will stay that way [until the 2026 season starts].”
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