Max Verstappen’s future beyond 2025 remains uncertain despite Red Bull’s long-term contract signed in 2022. Recent developments and speculation suggest that the four-time world champion is weighing his Max Verstappen 2026 options, which include staying at Red Bull, moving to Mercedes or Aston Martin, or even stepping back temporarily from Formula 1.

As the 2026 regulatory changes approach, Verstappen’s decision will be pivotal not only for his career trajectory but also for the teams involved, influencing the sport’s competitive landscape in the years to come.

Continuing with Red Bull: Stability Amid Change

Remaining with Red Bull appears to be the most straightforward choice for Verstappen, allowing him to maintain continuity while adapting to the new technical regulations in 2026. Honoring his contract would signal loyalty and confidence in the Milton Keynes-based team despite their recent struggles.

Red Bull’s performance has faltered somewhat in the early part of 2024, facing challenges within its engine program and organizational shifts caused by the departures of key figures such as Adrian Newey, Jonathan Wheatley, and co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz. Verstappen’s influence could play a vital role in reshaping the team’s structure and refocusing efforts toward returning to championship-winning form.

It was Red Bull’s belief in Verstappen’s potential at a young age—propelling him into Formula 1 at just 17—that laid the foundation for his rapid rise to stardom. The team patiently closed the gap to Mercedes during the 2010s, ultimately delivering a title-winning car in 2021. Staying with Red Bull would represent a commitment to repaying the faith shown by Christian Horner and Helmut Marko throughout his career.

Switching to Mercedes: A New Challenge and Opportunity

Leaving a successful team can be difficult, but sometimes seeking fresh challenges is necessary. Verstappen contemplating a switch to Mercedes aligns with rumors suggesting the German manufacturer could become dominant following the 2026 regulatory reset.

If Mercedes’ development lives up to expectations, joining them could elevate Verstappen’s chances of achieving an even greater legacy in Formula 1. The transition would require adaptation to a new car philosophy, but the expanded pre-season testing sessions scheduled for 2026 would provide adequate preparation time.

Under Toto Wolff’s leadership, who has guided drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg to world championships, Verstappen would find experienced management. A collaboration with Mercedes might also extend beyond F1, potentially involving roles as a brand ambassador for Mercedes-Benz and opportunities in other motor racing disciplines.

Notably, Mercedes’ involvement in sportscar racing could open doors for Verstappen to finally compete in prestigious endurance events such as the Spa 24 Hours and Nürburgring 24 Hours, races he has long expressed interest in.

Building Something New with Aston Martin

Another promising option for Verstappen is joining Aston Martin, a team with significant backing and ambition under owner Lawrence Stroll. Although the British squad has yet to consistently meet expectations in recent seasons, 2026 might mark a turning point when Stroll’s investments and upgrades begin to yield tangible results.

Unlike typical billionaire-led ventures in F1, Stroll’s vision for Aston Martin is focused on genuine competitiveness. Considerable resources have been poured into facility improvements and hiring key personnel, including bringing Adrian Newey on board as technical director, a reunification that could appeal to Verstappen.

Verstappen’s existing relationship with Honda, Aston Martin’s engine supplier, further enhances the appeal of this move. Negotiations reportedly include substantial financial incentives, underlining how crucial securing Verstappen would be to Aston Martin’s ambitions.

In addition, Verstappen’s own GT3 racing team currently campaigns Aston Martin’s Vantage GT3 in the GT World Challenge Europe, making expansion into F1 with the manufacturer a natural progression. Joining Aston Martin could also pave the way for a Hypercar entry at the Le Mans 24 Hours, adding an endurance racing dimension to his career.

Considering a Sabbatical: A Break from the Intensity

While Verstappen has explicitly dismissed the idea of a sabbatical, it remains a possible path should circumstances push him away from available team options. Sitting out the 2026 season could give him perspective on the evolving field and time to consider his future beyond Formula 1.

A sabbatical might appeal if Verstappen loses confidence in Red Bull’s management and perceives too much uncertainty in joining other teams before their cars have proven competitive. This break could provide relief from the relentless F1 calendar and off-track commitments, allowing him to focus on sim racing, motorsport passions, and dedicating time to his family, including his newborn daughter, Lily.

The risk of stepping away is significant, as title-winning teams may hesitate to disrupt successful driver pairings. Nonetheless, Verstappen’s stature is evident since Mercedes appears willing to make space for him by potentially releasing drivers like George Russell or Kimi Antonelli, indicating he would remain highly sought after even after a hiatus.

“Max Verstappen remains tight-lipped about his future at Red Bull, emphasizing that his situation has not changed since previous discussions.” —Verstappen, Driver
“Joining Mercedes would be a gamble, but with Toto Wolff’s leadership, one can expect Verstappen to have ample support.” —Anonymous insider
“Lawrence Stroll’s vision for Aston Martin is clear: to build a team capable of challenging for championships.” —Industry Analyst
“A sabbatical might permit Verstappen to pursue long-held ambitions like endurance racing at Spa and Nürburgring.” —Motorsport Commentator

The decisions Verstappen faces for 2026 will likely dictate the next phase of his racing career, influencing whether he continues to build on his dominant tenure at Red Bull, tackles new challenges with Mercedes, embraces a growing project at Aston Martin, or pauses to reassess before returning stronger. Each option carries its own risks and rewards amid the shifting forces in Formula 1 ahead of one of the sport’s most significant regulatory resets.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. What gender is Max Verstappen’s baby?

A. Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet shared the news of having their baby just before the Miami Grand Prix. The couple announced they now have a daughter.