Stays with Red Bull

Verstappen makes it clear: departure still not an issue

Max Verstappen feels at home at Red Bull.(Bild: APA/AFP/Giuseppe CACACE)

Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has temporarily put an end to speculation about a premature departure from Red Bull. "I intend to stay here until the end, because that would be a great story. I'm happy in the team," said the 26-year-old in the Melbourne paddock on Thursday ahead of the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday.

Verstappen still has a contract with Red Bull until 2028. According to the media, a power struggle is raging at Red Bull. On the one side are the Thai majority owners, who continue to support team boss Horner following a scandal. On the other side are advisor Helmut Marko and managing director Oliver Mintzlaff, as well as the team around Verstappen.

Max Verstappen(Bild: AP, GEPA)

Does farewell depend on Marko?
On the sidelines of the race in Jeddah two weeks ago, there was talk of a temporary suspension for Marko, as he was suspected of being the source of the data leak. However, this never materialized. Should Marko, whose contract expires in 2026, nevertheless have to leave Red Bull early, Verstappen could probably also get out of his contract earlier thanks to a contractual clause.