Red Bull boss Oliver Mintzlaff makes a bold statement when questioned about Max Verstappen's exit clause

Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff has addressed Max Verstappen's F1 future with the team as they march towards a crucial junction in their partnership. In 2026, F1 will enter a new technical era, and barely anything from the ground-effect cars will carry over, albeit maybe a few minor components and learnings.

Though Verstappen is contracted with Red Bull until 2028, the partnership effectively seems to have turned into multiple one-year commitments, where the four-time F1 champion is open to taking a call on his future if the team/car performance doesn't facilitate more wins and championships. In mid-2025, a report claimed that the Dutchman's contract has a performance clause, which allows him to exit the team if he falls below third place in the drivers' championship by the midpoint of a season.

If Red Bull fails to perform in 2026, which is an unknown for all teams, Max Verstappen could be on his way out. Oliver Mintzlaff addressed this possibility in a recent interview with de Telegraaf. When asked how he plans to retain the Dutchman if Red Bull isn't competitive, Mintzlaff replied:

"What is important to say is that I am not afraid of any performance clause in his contract. What is most important for an athlete is that he sees that everyone in the team gives everything for him. And I think Max is impressed with the way the results and the atmosphere in the team have turned out this year. Of course, Max always wants to win and have the best possible car, but so do we."

He elaborated on Verstappen's future, boldly claiming that the four-time F1 champion will stay with Red Bull for his entire career.

"As long as Max feels that we are working on that and doing everything we can, I think he will remain loyal to us. He also sees how much we have invested in our own engine. Don't forget that we are an energy drink brand, and what a unique step this is. I feel that there is an enormous appreciation and loyalty on both sides. For me, there is no doubt that Max Verstappen will end his career at Red Bull," Mintzlaff added.

Oliver Mintzlaff addresses Max Verstappen's manager's subtle contract warning to Red Bull

Max Verstappen with his manager Raymond Vermeulen at the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Source: Getty

In September this year, Max Verstappen's manager commented on the driver's future at Red Bull for 2026 and beyond. He stated that it would be a "fantastic story" if the partnership lasted for the entirety of the Dutchman's F1 career, but emphasized that it would hinge on Red Bull's ability to provide him with a 'winning' car.

In an interview with de Telegraaf, Vermeulen elaborated on why 2026 will be a pivotal year in Verstappen's decision to stay with the Milton Keynes outfit. He said:

"Next year, it's not only about the engine, but also about the chassis, and which people are brought in here, what impact will that have? It's like putting together a puzzle. That's why the conclusion was that it's better to stay at least one more year (2026)."

When Oliver Mintzlaff was asked about these comments, which effectively hinted at Max Verstappen's commitment being limited to 2026, the German executive replied:

"Nobody knows (if we will be sixth or seventh), maybe we are the second or third team. I know that we employ very good people. And it's not just about the engine, but also about the chassis. Christian Horner has also brought a lot of good people on board in recent years, just look at the engine department." "Staff will always leave if there is a good offer from a competitor. But I also think that many people see that there is a different atmosphere with us now. And that they see Red Bull as a winning, cool team, that talent gives the chance to develop itself," Mintzlaff added.

Red Bull and Mercedes recently sparked controversy regarding their 2026 engines. They reportedly exploited a loophole in the regulations, which allowed their engines to operate at a higher capacity, possibly contributing to over two-tenths of a second per lap.

If the FIA doesn't clamp down on the loophole exploitation after it meets with the teams on Monday, December 22, Max Verstappen might just be in championship contention for the sixth season in a row next year.

Edited by Yash Kotak