Estéban den Toom is an editor at GPblog, specializing in Formula 1. With a background in journalism and a keen eye for detail, he delivers daily, reliable coverage and analysis of technical developments and on-track strategy within the sport.
Max Verstappen could very easily leave Red Bull Racing after the coming season — at least if a report in a German newspaper is to be believed. Bild claims to know which clause would allow the Dutchman to tear up his contract, and it would not take much to activate it.
According to the German outlet, Verstappen would be able to terminate his deal at the end of 2026 if, by the start of the summer break at the end of July, he is not at least second in the drivers’ world championship.
Given the uncertainties surrounding the competitiveness of the Red Bull Ford power unit, that scenario cannot be ruled out.
Max Verstappen - Photo: Red Bull Content Pool
'Verstappen has another exit clause in 2027'
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Bild believes it becomes even easier for Verstappen to leave after 2027. The newspaper states that if Verstappen is not leading the world championship by the end of July 2027, he can unilaterally terminate his contract with Red Bull Racing at the end of that year.
Whether Verstappen would actually make use of his escape clauses remains to be seen.
Red Bull boss Oliver Mintzlaff told the German newspaper back in October that an escape clause did not necessarily have to be activated: “Max knows what he has in us. Not only did Red Bull give him his chance in Formula 1, we also won four world titles together. That creates a bond. He owes us as much as we owe him. That’s why I’m not worried that he could leave us.”
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