Max Verstappen signs long-term contract extension with Red Bull

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has signed a contract extension with Red Bull Racing, securing his tenure with the team until the end of 2030. The 29-year-old driver’s previous agreement was set to expire in 2028. This new deal, which reportedly makes him the highest-paid driver in the sport with annual earnings of 80 million euros, effectively puts an end to speculation regarding his future and potential interest from McLaren for the 2027 season.

The announcement comes as Verstappen currently sits in sixth place in the drivers' championship standings, trailing leader Kimi Antonelli by 110 points ahead of this weekend's Dutch Grand Prix. Despite the team's recent lack of a competitive car, Verstappen stated he is pleased with the extension and is committed to working with the team to return to the top of the standings. Red Bull management has reaffirmed its reliance on the Dutch driver as the cornerstone of their long-term project.

Looking ahead, the focus for both parties remains on regaining performance stability during the remainder of the 2026 season. With the contract issue resolved, the team aims to shift its full attention to addressing technical challenges and closing the gap to their rivals in the upcoming races.