Verstappen refuses to be drawn on future ahead of B… read more
Max Verstappen has remained tight-lipped about ongoing speculation surrounding his Formula 1 future, as rumors of a potential move to Mercedes continue to swirl in the lead-up to the 2025 British Grand Prix at Silverstone. The Dutch driver, who has become synonymous with Red Bull Racing’s recent dominance in Formula 1, refused to be drawn into discussions about exit clauses in his contract or any agreement with rival teams, particularly Mercedes. This comes after Sky Sport Italia reported that Verstappen had already agreed to join the Silver Arrows for next season—an assertion the reigning champion dismissed with calm but calculated vagueness.
During his Thursday media briefing, Verstappen remained composed under the barrage of questions, reiterating his loyalty to Red Bull while emphasizing that he is in control of his own destiny. “I am happy where I am,” Verstappen said. “There are always rumours, but only one who decides and that is me and the team. I control my own destiny and I am happy and in control of where I’m at.” Though his tone was diplomatic, he made it clear that outside speculation holds little weight in his decision-making process.
The rumors linking Verstappen to Mercedes stem from the uncertainty surrounding the team’s future lineup. George Russell, who has been at Mercedes since 2022, is reportedly close to renewing his contract and stated recently that he expects it to be confirmed within weeks. Mercedes, now preparing for sweeping regulation changes set to come into effect in 2026, is believed to be building a team capable of returning to the top—making a driver like Verstappen an ideal candidate. However, Verstappen made no such confirmations, instead brushing off the rumors as “stuff people write” and reiterated that he is focused on helping Red Bull recover after a slightly turbulent start to the 2025 season.
“In life, you can always see other things and think the grass is greener on the other side,” he said. “But I think it is best to stay calm. Up to now, we have had success—except for some moments this season—and that can happen. You have to accept it.” Verstappen acknowledged that Red Bull have not dominated every race in 2025, but insisted the team’s overall performance remains competitive and promising. “I know what I have and what we can do and that’s fine,” he said. “I am focused on the team and on improving.”
The 27-year-old also addressed the notion that drivers must always chase the fastest car to win championships, an idea often debated within the paddock. He argued that predicting the fastest team in future seasons is nearly impossible, and that stability and development within a team often trump knee-jerk decisions. “Who would know two years ago who would be fastest now?” Verstappen asked. “If you chase the fastest car now, it may not be the fastest car next year. Sometimes you can luck in and then win four, or five or six titles…”
For Verstappen, the idea of spending his entire F1 career with a single team, much like past greats including Michael Schumacher or Ayrton Senna hoped to do, still holds considerable appeal. When asked whether he’s ever been tempted to leave Red Bull, Verstappen replied bluntly, “I’m gonna say no… I don’t want more headlines.” He added, “It would be ideal to finish my career at Red Bull with one team. That would be something amazing and I am still trying to achieve that. We are fighting for podiums now and that’s not too bad!”
Reports suggest Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull includes certain exit clauses, including a rumored stipulation that he may leave if he’s not within the top three of the drivers’ standings by the end of July. However, the four-time world champion declined to comment on the validity or specifics of such clauses, reinforcing his desire to keep contract matters private. As speculation continues, Verstappen remains focused on the track, and on helping Red Bull regain their footing in a season that has offered more competition than in recent years.
