Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff says he’s “convinced” Max Verstappen won’t be leaving the team any time soon, despite growing speculation in the Formula 1 paddock.
As rumors swirl around the future of the reigning four-time world champion, Mintzlaff made it clear during a rare appearance in Jeddah that he doesn’t see Verstappen activating an exit clause.
“We’re all frustrated with the current situation—let’s not sugarcoat it,” Mintzlaff admitted. “But no, I don’t think Max will leave. I’m confident he’ll stay with Red Bull.”
Verstappen is under contract until the end of 2028, and although he recently said he’s “not thinking” about leaving, he hasn’t ruled it out entirely.
Still, Mintzlaff believes the bond between the team and their star driver is solid. “Max told me once that he started his career at Red Bull and wants to finish it here. As far as I know, that hasn’t changed.”
He added, “We’ve gained a lot from Max—he’s the best driver in the world. But the truth is, he owes a lot to Red Bull too. Yes, things are tough right now, but I don’t get the sense that he’s lost faith in us.”
“As long as we keep building the fastest car, he’ll stay with us. That’s how we win again—and we will.”
Mintzlaff also stressed the importance of loyalty during challenging times. “A long-term partnership means sticking together through ups and downs.”
But the challenges are real. Verstappen isn’t the only one potentially feeling the pressure. Behind the scenes, Red Bull Racing has been dealing with political tensions, including reported friction between team principal Christian Horner and motorsport advisor Helmut Marko.
“I fully trust our people, including our leadership,” Mintzlaff said. “Christian and Helmut both want success, and they’re working toward it. We’ve talked things through recently. Every relationship has its ups and downs—but let’s not forget, their 400th race together is coming up in Miami.”
He pointed out that Marko was the one who hired Horner back in 2005. “There’s a deep connection there. In an environment filled with pressure, passion, and emotion, things can get heated. But when that happens, you sit down and resolve it behind closed doors—and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
Mintzlaff also addressed the controversial decision to drop Liam Lawson after just two races—something that drew criticism in the paddock.
“I get the backlash—and it’s not unfair. But it was the right call,” he said. “Formula 1 is a high-stakes sport, and his performance just wasn’t at the level we need. Keeping Liam in the car would’ve been the wrong move. We would’ve been doing him more harm than good.”
“In the end, he understood and accepted it. And we’re glad to have him back with Racing Bulls.”
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Red Bull CEO Mintzlaff Confident Verstappen Will Stay Red Bull CEO Mintzlaff Confident Verstappen Will Stay