Max Verstappen extends contract with Red Bull to 2030 after weighing leaving F1
Formula One champion Max Verstappen has signed a contract extension with Red Bull Racing through 2030. Despite frustrations with current car regulations, Verstappen chose to stay with the team rather than retire from the sport.
Why it matters
This secures the future of the sport's most dominant driver and stabilizes the Red Bull team during a period of technical transition.
First place finisher Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands celebrates after the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix auto race, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025 in Las Vegas. (John Locher/AP) ZANDVOORT, Netherlands — Max Verstappen says he seriously considered leaving Formula 1 before the four-time champion instead committed to four more years with Red Bull on Thursday.
The announcement of his contract extension ahead of Verstappen’s home Dutch Grand Prix this weekend ends speculation that he could seek a blockbuster move to another team or quit the sport.
It comes despite Red Bull struggling to match the pace of leading team Mercedes this season, and Verstappen's own frustration with how much the 2026 cars rely on electrical power.
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