Verstappen announces he IS staying in F1 but does not rule out Red Bull Ex… see details in the comment
Max Verstappen has confirmed that he will continue racing in Formula 1 in 2027, putting an end to speculation that he could retire because of the sport’s upcoming regulation changes. However, while the Dutch driver has made it clear that he intends to stay in F1, he has stopped short of guaranteeing that his future will remain with Red Bull.
The four-time world champion had previously voiced major concerns about the new technical regulations set to arrive in 2026. Verstappen was particularly critical of the planned balance between the internal combustion engine and electric power, joking that the cars risked becoming similar to “Mario Kart” or “Formula E on steroids.” His frustration with the direction of the sport, combined with Red Bull’s difficult start to the season, fuelled rumours that he might consider stepping away from Formula 1 altogether after this year.
Those concerns appear to have eased following discussions within the FIA regarding the engine rules. Motorsport authorities are now pushing for a revised 60-40 split between combustion and electrical energy, instead of the previously proposed 50-50 balance. Although the change still awaits official approval, Verstappen admitted the adjustment is enough to convince him to continue competing in the sport.
Speaking to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Verstappen confirmed his intention to remain on the grid beyond next season. He said that unless something “very crazy” happens, he fully expects to still be racing in Formula 1 in 2027. He added that he hopes all parties involved will honour the proposed agreement regarding the regulations.
The Red Bull driver explained that while the updated engine ratio may not be perfect, it represents progress and is far more acceptable than the original proposal. According to Verstappen, the revised approach would improve the racing experience and move the sport in a better direction.
Despite confirming his future in Formula 1, Verstappen’s long-term commitment to Red Bull remains uncertain. Reports suggest there is an exit clause in his current contract that could allow him to leave the team if he is not among the top two drivers in the championship standings by the summer break. At the moment, Verstappen sits seventh in the standings, meaning the clause could potentially become active later this season.
If Verstappen were to enter the driver market, several top teams would almost certainly attempt to secure his signature. Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren are all expected to be interested should the opportunity arise.
Even so, Verstappen insisted he is not rushing to make any decisions about his future. He reiterated that his ideal scenario would be to remain connected with Red Bull for the rest of his career, something he has stated on several occasions in the past.
However, the Dutchman also explained that his future involves more than simply signing a Formula 1 contract. He revealed that discussions with Red Bull also involve wider projects outside racing, suggesting that his long-term plans are more complex than just choosing a team.
For now, Verstappen appears calm and relaxed about the uncertainty surrounding his future. He stressed that there is no need for dramatic speculation and made it clear that he is comfortable whatever the outcome may eventually be.