Max Verstappen future with Red Bull F1 team is still uncertain with reports emerging about the duitch driver likely to move to Mercedes iin the next season. Even though Verstappen is officially signed with Red Bull until the end of 2028, there’s growing speculation that he could leave the team much earlier. A Red Bull insider has reportedly revealed that a massive fee would be required to release the Dutch driver from his current deal.
How much money Max Verstappen needs to pay to leave Red Bull F1?
According to Sky Sports F1 reporter Craig Slater, the four time world champion may have to shell out more than £100 million to break free from his Red Bull contract if he wants to join Mercedes in time for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Red Bull team boss Christian Horner previously confirmed that Verstappen’s contract includes a performance-based exit clause. This clause may allow him to leave if he falls below fourth place in the Drivers’ Championship by the Hungarian Grand Prix, which takes place later this month.
Is Max Verstappen elible to leave Red Bull F1?
At the moment, Verstappen is third in the standings, just nine points ahead of Mercedes’ George Russell the very driver whose seat he’s been linked to. If Verstappen finishes the next race behind Russell and drops to fifth or lower, the clause could technically be triggered.
'I have nothing more to add': Verstappen Keeps Quiet Ahead of British GP
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix, Verstappen refused to be drawn into the speculation. He said, “I have nothing to add,” he told reporters when asked about the Mercedes rumours. “People write what they want. That’s not for me.”
Reflecting on the current season, Verstappen admitted things haven’t gone as planned but stressed the importance of staying grounded.
“You can always say the grass is greener on the other side, but I think it's important to enjoy what you're doing,” he said. “So far, I've had a lot of success. This year hasn’t gone our way, but that happens in racing.”
