The ongoing commitment of Max Verstappen to Red Bull within Formula 1 is secure for now, though anticipation builds that the four-time champion will leverage the 2026 season as a crucial period to carefully evaluate the squad’s competitive standing before charting his future trajectory.
This perspective is voiced by David Coulthard, a former Red Bull driver, who posited that Verstappen would refrain from “jumping ship” unless the team demonstrates significant challenges at the commencement of the forthcoming regulatory overhaul.
It was widely acknowledged that Verstappen entertained discussions with Mercedes concerning a potential arrangement for the upcoming year. However, he affirmed his dedication to Red Bull through 2026, which coincides with Laurent Mekies’s appointment as team principal, succeeding Christian Horner.
Coulthard, who continues to represent Red Bull as an ambassador, holds the belief that Verstappen will afford the team the opportunity to showcase its capability to excel in 2026 or to lay the groundwork for sustained triumph.
Speculation has arisen suggesting that Red Bull’s 2026 powertrain – a collaborative effort with Ford – might not initially lead the pack. Should a consistent performance deficit emerge, Coulthard anticipates Verstappen will explore avenues to exit his contractual obligations.
“There’s no straightforward answer. It’s deeply personal, isn’t it? But I genuinely believe – you know Max. I know Max – I have absolute faith in his integrity, in his allegiance,” Coulthard conveyed to Autosport during the More Than Equal gathering in Zandvoort.
“Yet, he’s undeniably a racing driver. He’s not involved merely for leisurely laps. He’s committed to the team. He’ll provide the team the platform to deliver what they’ve previously provided him.”
“The very individuals who engineered his victorious vehicle are now presenting him with a car that has secured victories this year. It’s not as dire as Ferrari’s situation. It’s merely not a McLaren. Consequently, you don’t simply transition to another team because your current one didn’t triumph.”
“The resolution to your inquiry lies within Max’s discretion. However, I surmise he’ll scrutinize ’26. Should a substantial engine issue plague the Red Bull power units, it would undoubtedly raise concerns. Conversely, if the power unit functions effectively yet challenges persist in adapting to new regulations, that might afford them additional time.”
Coulthard believes Verstappen would only move from Red Bull in the case of serious struggles in 2026
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
“However, should it become a struggle, he will naturally explore alternative options. He retains the prerogative to pursue other avenues. I don’t anticipate any resentment from within the team regarding such a decision.
“And I’m certain of one thing, Max would directly address them, stating: ‘I’m basing this decision on the following factors’. Because he’s a man of honour. He’s not one to simply depart without explanation.”
Toto Wolff, the team principal at Mercedes, discussed the potential for a future alliance with Verstappen, proposing a “50%” likelihood that the Dutch driver might eventually join their ranks.
When this was relayed to Coulthard, he surmised that the possibility exists for Verstappen to find himself at Ferrari at some juncture – ultimately hinging on identifying a setting where he can “be himself,” transcending mere financial considerations.
“I can envision [Verstappen joining Mercedes]. But does this imply certainty? Of course not,” he elaborated.
“There’s perhaps a 50 percent probability he’ll ultimately be with Ferrari. He’ll gravitate toward the most promising avenue for securing a victorious car.
“Max won’t be swayed by financial incentives alone, given his already established career triumphs. He’ll seek a team where he believes he can authentically express himself.”
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