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Red Bull Faces Driver Inquiries Amid Verstappen Speculation
23 Jul
Summary
- Red Bull confirms other teams are inquiring about Max Verstappen's future.
- Verstappen's contract has clauses allowing him to leave at the season's end.
- Red Bull's performance improvements are seen as key to retaining Verstappen.
Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has acknowledged that other Formula 1 teams are making inquiries regarding Max Verstappen's future. Mekies stated that this interest is mutual, with "good drivers" also reaching out to Red Bull about potential opportunities.
Verstappen's current contract extends to the end of 2028 but reportedly contains performance clauses that could permit his departure this season, with a decision deadline believed to be in October. Despite potential options with other teams appearing limited for 2027, Red Bull's focus remains on improving the car.
Mekies expressed confidence that Red Bull's substantial on-track progress, having closed a significant pace deficit since the start of the season, will be the deciding factor in retaining Verstappen. The team has seen significant improvements, particularly with recent upgrades to the RB22.
He downplayed concerns about a team transition, emphasizing that Red Bull's singular objective, shared by Verstappen, is to win. Mekies believes the current group of people is capable of achieving this, highlighting their success in overcoming a substantial pace deficit.
The team is concentrating on achieving the final tenths of a second needed for ultimate pace, viewing this as the most effective way to address any uncertainties surrounding Verstappen's future.
