Verstappen's future: "Happy where I am now"

Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen reacted cynically to the never-ending transfer speculation at a press conference before the Belgian Grand Prix.

July 24, 2025

From: dpa

"There's also the possibility that I won't wake up tomorrow. Then I won't race at all," the Dutchman replied when asked if he might leave Red Bull at the end of the year. "Life is unpredictable, but I'm happy where I am."

It remains my goal "to drive here until the end of my career," Verstappen added in the rainy paddock at Spa-Francorchamps. Whether that will actually happen remains to be seen. Four-time world champion Verstappen still has a contract with Red Bull valid until the end of 2028, but is dissatisfied with the current situation.

Verstappen sees no fault in Horner's exit

Recently, there has been speculation about a move to Mercedes, but this is unlikely to materialize. The Silver Arrows will likely continue to rely on regular drivers George Russell (2026, Great Britain) and Kimi Antonelli (27, Italy) in 18. An agreement on this could be reached in the coming days before the Grand Prix on Sunday (15.00:XNUMX p.m.).

Where is Max Verstappen headed? © APA/afp / JOE KLAMAR

Meanwhile, Red Bull is facing its first race weekend without Christian Horner in over 20 years. The Briton was removed from the team's helm, and Frenchman Laurent Mekies took over as the new boss. Verstappen insisted that Horner's departure was not his insistence. "The owners informed me half a day before it was made public," said the 27-year-old. "These things can happen. I'm the driver, others decide that."

Verstappen said that the fact that Horner is no longer the team's boss had "no influence" on his future decision. "We've had great years," he said, thanking Horner, with whom he continues to communicate: "But the last year and a half haven't gone as hoped – and now management has decided that this is the case."

Schlagwörter: Motorsport Formula 1 Max Verstappen Red Bull