Max Verstappen Ends Mercedes Rumors, Commits to Red Bull Through 2026
The rumors can finally be put to rest. Max Verstappen has confirmed he’ll stick with Red Bull Racing until 2026, crushing speculation about a potential jump to Mercedes.
The Dutch champion made it official during media day before the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend.
“I’ll be driving for Red Bull next year as well,” Verstappen stated simply last Thursday, ending months of whispers about a possible move to Toto Wolff’s Mercedes team.
This commitment comes at a crucial time for Red Bull, which is working frantically on both next year’s car and the completely new 2026 package that includes their own powertrain.
Red Bull Racing team manager Laurent Mekies couldn’t hide his relief.
“Of course it is [a boost],” Mekies told The Inside Track. “There is a huge effort from everyone at the factory on several fronts, trying to improve the ’25 car, the ’26 projects, the ’26 powertrain.”
The timing couldn’t be better for a team that’s been pushing its limits behind the scenes.
“The company is flat out. Our people have been pushing for months, trying to find the right compromise,” Mekies explained.
He also hinted at recent internal challenges, adding: “Obviously we also had the shock news a few a couple of weeks ago and having that sort of renewed commitment is something that is the right sign to get everyone to give even more tomorrow.”
While Verstappen’s commitment provides stability for the future, the team’s immediate performance remains a concern.
## Hungarian GP Challenges Ahead
Despite the positive atmosphere surrounding Verstappen’s announcement, Red Bull still has serious work to do on the track.
The Hungarian Grand Prix represents their final opportunity to gain momentum before Formula 1’s summer break.
Verstappen himself had a frustrating Friday practice session at the Hungaroring.
Red Bull was hoping for improvements in Hungary, but technical director Pierre Waché reportedly shared some alarming news about the car’s current performance level.
The team will need to find solutions quickly if they hope to maintain their championship position heading into the season’s second half.
