Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has revealed that he has no plans to sign a new long-term contract with Red Bull Racing in the near future, as he remains uncertain about his future in the sport beyond his current agreement.
The Dutch driver, who has won four consecutive world championships, is already tied to Red Bull until the end of the 2028 season. However, despite his successful partnership with the Milton Keynes-based team, Verstappen insists that extending his stay is not something he is currently focused on.
Speaking ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, Verstappen explained that before discussing any potential contract extension, he first wants to determine whether he still wishes to compete in Formula 1 after his existing deal expires.
The 28-year-old has previously expressed concerns about the future direction of the sport, particularly regarding Formula 1’s upcoming power unit regulations. The new engine rules place equal emphasis on electrical energy and traditional combustion power, creating a 50/50 split that has generated debate throughout the paddock.
Verstappen has been among the most outspoken critics of the changes, suggesting that the regulations could alter the nature of racing and reduce the enjoyment factor for drivers. Following his recent podium finish in Montreal, he reiterated his concerns and hinted that his long-term future in Formula 1 could depend on how the sport evolves over the next few years.
Although Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, has been exploring adjustments to the regulations, Verstappen remains cautious. While he welcomed efforts to review and improve the rules, he made it clear that he is not yet ready to commit himself to a career that extends well beyond 2028.
“I haven’t signed a new contract for a while, but that’s not my biggest concern right now,” Verstappen said. “I still have two years remaining on my current agreement, so there’s no immediate pressure.”
Contract discussions became a major topic in Monaco after Ferrari star Charles Leclerc reportedly secured a fresh long-term commitment with the Italian team. The development naturally led to questions about whether Red Bull would seek a similar arrangement with their star driver.
Despite being the cornerstone of Red Bull’s success in recent seasons, Verstappen suggested that any decision regarding a new contract would have to wait until he is certain about his personal ambitions.
“I first need to decide for myself whether I want to continue racing beyond 2028,” he explained. “That’s why I’m not in a hurry to negotiate anything.”
The reigning champion also joked about the speculation surrounding his future, saying that if he were eager to commit for the long term, he would have already signed an agreement lasting until 2040.
For now, Verstappen remains fully focused on competing for further victories and championships. However, his latest comments underline that his future in Formula 1 is far from guaranteed, and that decisions regarding both the sport’s regulations and his own motivations will play a major role in determining whether fans will continue to see him on the grid after 2028.
