Red Bull have been urged to identify a long-term successor for Max Verstappen as uncertainty surrounding the reigning Formula 1 champion’s future continues to grow.
Speculation over Verstappen’s next move has intensified after another frustrating weekend at the British Grand Prix, where his race ended prematurely following a crash with just a handful of laps remaining. The incident marked the second consecutive race weekend in which the Dutch driver saw his hopes of a strong finish disappear due to problems with the RB22, adding to Red Bull’s difficult 2026 campaign.
Despite Verstappen’s exceptional talent and four world titles, Red Bull have struggled to provide him with a consistently competitive and reliable car this season. Mechanical setbacks and disappointing results have left the 28-year-old well outside the championship fight, fuelling fresh rumours that he could consider ending his stay with the Milton Keynes-based team earlier than expected.
Reports suggest Verstappen’s contract contains an exit clause that could become active if he is not inside the top two of the drivers’ championship by the summer break. With only two race weekends remaining before that point, Verstappen currently sits seventh in the standings, making it mathematically impossible for him to climb into second place in time. That situation has only increased speculation over his long-term future.
As discussions continue over what Verstappen may decide, several names have already been linked with a potential move to Red Bull. Among the most talked-about candidates is McLaren star Oscar Piastri, whose impressive performances have established him as one of Formula 1’s brightest young talents.
Some observers believe Piastri possesses the speed, maturity and racecraft required to become Red Bull’s next team leader should Verstappen leave. The Australian has consistently impressed throughout the season, earning praise for his calm approach under pressure and his ability to challenge at the front of the grid.
However, any move for Piastri would be far from straightforward. While rumours of a sensational transfer have circulated in recent weeks, there is currently little indication that either side is preparing for such a switch.
According to GPFans, McLaren remain fully committed to their partnership with Piastri. Team CEO Zak Brown is understood to be delighted with the Australian’s performances, while Piastri himself is reportedly happy with his current environment and focused on continuing his long-term project with the Woking-based outfit.
That means Red Bull may have to look elsewhere if Verstappen decides to trigger an early departure from the team.
Although Verstappen has repeatedly stated his desire to fight for championships, the ongoing struggles of the RB22 have placed increasing pressure on Red Bull to improve their competitiveness. Failure to do so could force the team into one of the biggest driver market decisions in recent Formula 1 history.
For now, Verstappen remains a Red Bull driver, but with his future under intense scrutiny and contract speculation continuing to dominate headlines, attention will remain firmly on the upcoming race weekends. If the four-time world champion eventually chooses to move on, Red Bull could face the enormous challenge of replacing one of the sport’s greatest talents—while finding the right driver capable of leading the team into its next era.
