Coulthard Believes Verstappen Will Finish His Career… read more 👇 full details in the comments sectionÂ
Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has dismissed recent rumours linking Max Verstappen with a move away from Red Bull Racing, insisting that the Dutch star is likely to remain with the team for the rest of his Formula 1 career.
Speculation surrounding Verstappen’s future has intensified after Red Bull’s difficult start to the 2026 season. The reigning world champion has struggled to fight near the front of the grid and has not managed to finish higher than fifth place in any grand prix so far this year. As a result, Verstappen currently sits seventh in the drivers’ standings, a situation few expected after his years of dominance in Formula 1.
At the same time, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team have emerged as the dominant force under the new regulations, increasing speculation that Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff could once again attempt to sign Verstappen. Wolff has openly admired the Dutch driver in recent seasons and has repeatedly been linked with a possible move for him.
Despite the rumours, Coulthard believes Verstappen has little reason to leave Red Bull. Speaking on the Up To Speed podcast, the former Red Bull racer explained that no other Formula 1 team would give Verstappen the same level of freedom and flexibility he currently enjoys.
According to Coulthard, Verstappen’s relationship with Red Bull goes beyond racing performance alone. The team has allowed him to fully express himself both on and off the track, something that may not be possible elsewhere. Verstappen is heavily involved in activities outside Formula 1, including sim racing and GT competitions, and recently took part in the famous 24 Hours Nürburgring endurance race.
Coulthard argued that teams such as Mercedes, Scuderia Ferrari, or McLaren Formula 1 Team would likely impose stricter limitations because of the enormous investment placed into a leading Formula 1 driver. In contrast, he said Red Bull’s philosophy has always been centred around allowing drivers to remain authentic and independent.
The Scot reflected on his own experiences with the team during his time racing there between 2005 and 2008. He recalled asking late Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz what was expected of him before signing for the team. According to Coulthard, Mateschitz simply replied: “Be yourself.”
Coulthard believes that same culture still exists within Red Bull today and is one of the main reasons Verstappen feels comfortable at the organisation. He also pointed to the influence of longtime Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, who has played a major role in developing and supporting drivers throughout the team’s history.
Although Verstappen is contracted with Red Bull until the end of 2028, reports have suggested there are performance-related exit clauses within the agreement. However, Coulthard is convinced those clauses are unlikely to matter because Verstappen’s personal connection with the team is stronger than any temporary competitive difficulties.
While many fans and analysts continue to speculate about a possible blockbuster move to Mercedes, Coulthard believes the discussion is unnecessary. In his view, Red Bull offers Verstappen something unique that no rival team can replicate — the freedom to compete, race in other categories, and remain completely himself.
For that reason, Coulthard expects Verstappen to ignore the outside noise and stay loyal to Red Bull for the remainder of his Formula 1 journey.