Report: Verstappen can exit Red Bull if not second by summer break

While his deal runs until 2028, previous terms regarding Helmut Marko were removed in 2024. Now, attention shifts to the upcoming seasons.

For the 2026 campaign, the three-time champion can terminate the agreement if he is not sitting at least second in the Drivers’ Championship by the summer break, following the Hungarian Grand Prix. The requirements for 2027 are even tougher for the team: Verstappen gains the option to depart at the season's conclusion if he is not leading the standings by the summer interval.

Reportedly, these high-stakes clauses were negotiated independently by advisor Helmut Marko during the 2022 renewal talks, keeping Christian Horner unaware. Following Verstappen's admitted discussions with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff last year, these specific performance stipulations could ultimately dictate whether the Dutchman remains at Milton Keynes.