Jos Verstappen reveals scenario where Max Verstappen stays at Red Bull amidst exit rumors

Max Verstappen's father Jos Verstappen hinted at the factor that would ensure the F1 champion stays at Red Bull for the foreseeable future.

Jos Verstappen reveals scenario where Max Verstappen stays at Red Bull amidst exit rumors

Jos Verstappen and Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)

Max Verstappen has raced for Red Bull Racing since the 2016 Spanish GP. The four-time world champion has been rumored to be on the cusp of leaving Milton Keynes a few times over the years. However, the Dutchman’s father Jos Verstappen has highlighted how the Austrian giant can retain the 27-year-old for the future.

Verstappen’s current Red Bull contract extends till the end of 2028. The reigning world champion has so far dismissed rumors of joining Aston Martin or Mercedes in 2026. Although, there is reportedly an exit clause which could facilitate such a switch for the 27-year-old.

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Jos Verstappen highlighted that a lot will depend on Red Bull’s performance next season. The former F1 driver asserted that if Milton Keynes manages to provide another championship-winning car to Max Verstappen, he will stay at the Austrian team for the foreseeable future.

Much also depends on what is happening here at Red Bull. Look, if they get it done again next year and we drive in the front, Max will just stay.

Jos Verstappen told Formule1.nl

Jos Verstappen insists Red Bull Powertrains matching ‘expectations’

For the 2026 rule change, Red Bull will be producing its own power units in collaboration with American carmaker Ford. This is a massive undertaking which could make or break Milton Keynes’ F1 prospects. Jos Verstappen has now signaled that the in-house project has so far matched expectations. Though, the real result will only be visible once the 2026 car hits the track.

Christian Horner and Max Verstappen
Christian Horner and Max Verstappen (Via: Imago)

The program [Red Bull Ford Powertrains] runs and runs in line with expectations. No one knows how good the engine and car will really be in 2026. You will only find out if it is actually on the track.

Jos Verstappen added

Certainly, Max Verstappen will be keeping himself informed over Red Bull Powertrains’ progress. The engine program could play a major factor in the Dutchman’s future in Formula 1. So far, it seems that Milton Keynes does not need to worry about losing its star driver to a rival just yet.