Verstappen explains why he chose to stay with Red Bull over a faster car
Max Verstappen has explained why, despite offers from Mercedes and McLaren, he chose to extend his contract with Red Bull until 2030. The driver emphasized his loyalty to the team and his wish to help it return to winning form.
Max Verstappen has commented on his decision to continue his career with Red Bull, despite rumors over the summer suggesting he might move to McLaren, as well as longer-standing speculation about a possible switch to Mercedes.
The Dutchman confirmed that he had indeed held talks with both teams, but said the deciding factor was the close bond he has built with Red Bull over the years. He compared the team to a second family and stressed that his commitment goes beyond racing alone, noting that next year he plans several activities outside Formula 1 that also involve Red Bull.
Ready for the challenge
Red Bull is currently unable to give Verstappen a car capable of regularly fighting for wins, but the driver said he is prepared to put in the work to help the team regain its competitiveness. He said he feels no need to prove himself by jumping to a faster car, comparing his role to that of a ship's captain who does not abandon the vessel the moment things go wrong.
Verstappen acknowledged that, compared to the team's years of dominance, Red Bull is currently going through a decline, but said he has no issue being part of rebuilding it, calling it a new challenge.
The new contract with Red Bull runs until 2030, and like his previous deal, it reportedly includes provisions allowing for an early exit. Verstappen turns 29 at the end of September and currently sits sixth in the drivers' standings with 127 points.
