Max Verstappen is still currently racing with Red Bull, but rumors about his future are growing increasingly frequent. The Dutchman has an exit clause that could allow him to leave the team. Former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has weighed in on the decision Verstappen should make.

Verstappen has dominated the ground effect era since 2022 and won his fourth title last season with two races to spare.The Red Bull driver has been left frustrated this year as he isn't in championship contention, as McLaren are setting the pace.  

McLaren hold a commanding 217-point lead in the Constructors' Championship. The drivers title should be an exclusive battle between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris too.Verstappen's issues may be compounded next year with the new regulations and Mercedes may have the upper hand.

Timo Glock told Sky Germany ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring that Verstappen is wary of Mercedes having an advantage in 2026.  

After making the incredibly tough decision to leave Mercedes after twelve years and embrace the final great challenge of his career with Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton’shopes of securing an eighth world title—one that would cement him as the most successful driver of all time—are steadily fading.

The British driver is currently experiencing a challenging first season in red, with no podiums so far (excluding the sprint race in China). However, a solid fourth-place finish last weekend in Austria has slightly rekindled the flame of hope for him and his fans.

But now approaching 40 and facing tougher competition than ever, can Hamilton realistically still aim for an eighth title before hanging up his helmet? This is the answer, according to Bernie Ecclestone.