Not Going Anywhere: Max Verstappen signs long-term extension with Red Bull

EDDIE KALEGI - STAFF WRITER

Max Verstappen on the podium at the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix (Photo Credit: PlanetF1)

Despite speculation about a move to another Formula One constructor, another series, or retirement altogether, Max Verstappen is staying put.

The four-time World Drivers' Champion announced earlier this week that he has signed an extension with Red Bull through the end of the 2030 season, removing him from consideration for rides at teams like Mercedes, McLaren, and Aston Martin.

Verstappen has been openly frustrated with both his individual performance and the current Formula One regulations, sitting a distant sixth in the standings with just four podiums on the season entering this weekend's return from 'Summer Break' at the Dutch Grand Prix.

Verstappen's lack of a consistent teammate has also plagued the organization in recent years, having cycled through four different teammates in the past two years. The revolving door continues this weekend at Zandvoort, as Liam Lawson returns to the second Red Bull seat, filling in for Isack Hadjar, who is sidelined with a wrist fracture sustained during training.

Despite the turmoil, Verstappen's accolades and achievements with Red Bull have been undeniable. At still only 28 years-old, he has the third most Grand Prix victories in the history of the sport, trailing only Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher, and won four consecutive championships between 2021 and 2024, scoring an incredible 53 wins over that span.