Laurent Mekies, head of Red Bull Racing, rejected the information that Max Verstappen will receive US$ 80 million per year in his new Formula 1 contract. The amount was cited by Nico Rosberg during the Dutch GP weekend, but was not confirmed by the team.
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Red Bull announced in Zandvoort that Verstappen renewed his contract for another two years, ensuring his stay until the end of 2030. Although official figures have not been released, the 28-year-old driver reportedly received a salary increase, fueling speculation about the size of the new deal.
During an interview with Sky Sports F1, Rosberg directly asked Mekies about the US$ 80 million figure: “But, I also have to ask, what I hear is US$ 80 million per year. Is that true? Is that number close? It’s a big number,” questioned the former driver and F1 champion in 2016.
Mekies, who took over Red Bull after Christian Horner’s departure last July, responded directly: “So, both statements are incorrect.” The executive, however, did not reveal Verstappen’s salary nor presented another value for the new contract.
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Instead of commenting on the numbers, Mekies highlighted the relationship between Verstappen and the team’s structure: “It’s really a matter of the trust Max has in the 2,000 people we have in Milton Keynes, on the chassis and power unit side, and he knows what our people are capable of and chose to place his trust in us for the future,” he stated.
The Dutchman, who had been rumored for a possible move to McLaren or Mercedes, ended speculation by renewing with Red Bull: “My objective and my goal are to finish my career with this team. We are getting close to that,” declared Verstappen, adding that this remains his goal despite the many years he still has ahead.
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