With Formula 1’s summer break approaching after the Hungarian Grand Prix on July 27, Red Bull faces intensifying pressure. Max Verstappen’s contractual agreement, currently in seventh place in the Drivers’ World Championship, includes a clause that allows him to leave early if he is not among the top two by that date, and the team confirmed last Friday the need to offer a competitive car to the four-time world champion driver, in line with his representative’s demands.
“I don’t ask Max weekly about his stay. He assured us that he wants to stay in the team,” said Laurent Mekies, head of Red Bull, during the management conference held on Friday at the Austrian GP. Mekies emphasized that “it is equally clear that he needs a fast vehicle to feel satisfied in the team, expressing himself openly about the progress that we must achieve according to the new regulations”.
Mekies also added that “there was a very transparent conversation between the FIA, Formula 1 and the teams, which allowed the rules to be adjusted for 2027 and 2028”. He highlighted the driver’s dedication: “Max is actively involved, working with us to determine the correct direction in developing the car, carrying out exhaustive tests in practice to explore all alternatives.” The team leader concluded that the priority is “to restore the car’s performance; once it returns to the desired position, the debate will be over.”
Although Max Verstappen’s formal contract with Red Bull extends until 2028, his contract contains results-based termination provisions, allowing for early separation, including this season. In view of this, the Austrian team showed interest in acquiring the early departure clause provided for in the Dutch driver’s agreement.
News released by the German newspaper “Bild” revealed that, on the 10th of this month, Verstappen and his agent Raymond Vermeulen participated in a significant meeting. The meeting was attended by Laurent Mekies, sporting director Oliver Mintzlaff, main shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya and Mark Mateschitz, who is the heir of the energy drink company’s late creator, Dietrich Mateschitz.
Apparently, the dialogue took place at Salzburg airport, Austria, with the transaction estimated at tens of millions of euros. The deadline for Verstappen to activate his release clause with Red Bull would extend until October. Raymond Vermeulen, in a statement to “Bild”, confirmed the existence of these clauses, while guaranteeing his and the driver’s loyalty to the team.
However, the agent stressed that the “chance of achieving victories” remains intrinsically linked to the four-time champion’s permanence. Last Friday, Dutch reporter Erik van Haren, known for his closeness to Max Verstappen and his family, reported that Raymond Vermeulen revived the discussion, insisting on the importance of ideal conditions to keep the racer in the team.
“Our intention is to complete this journey together with Red Bull”, declared the businessman. He added: “We feel good in the team, but our ambition is to be highly competitive. Ultimately, Max Verstappen is not made to challenge for mid-grid positions.”
Recently, Max achieved third place in the Canadian Grand Prix, his only podium in the current Formula 1 season. The Dutch driver has only 55 points in the championship, while Red Bull occupies fourth place in the Constructors’ World Championship, with 89 points. Recognizing this disadvantage, the team has prepared a comprehensive set of improvements aimed at reducing the performance gap in this weekend’s race, which will be held in its own country.
The team’s primary goal for the Austrian Grand Prix is to reduce the weight of the RB22, the vehicle used this season, which, according to information, would be between 12 and 15 kilos above the established minimum limit.
Modifications scheduled for this weekend include a review of the configuration of the sidepod intakes and changes to the floor, rear suspension, rear wing supports and exhaust outlet component.
“Max is looking for a fast car and has always had that expectation,” said Mekies. “He has full confidence in our efforts to ensure we are taking action on all fronts, both in the short and long term. We started the season with a considerable delay. We are fully aware that we need to make further progress; this weekend is key to getting us closer and competing for more favorable positions.” However, the Red Bull boss warned: “This does not imply that all the problems will be solved now. It will take time for this extensive package to work properly. Max understands well the effort required for a team to reduce a second’s disadvantage compared to its rivals. Our expectation is to end this weekend with a difference of less than two or three tenths compared to the competition, which would represent a significant advance.”