Red Bull is preparing a new move to secure Max Verstappen’s stay in Formula 1. According to the German newspaper Bild, the team presented the four-time world champion with a renewal proposal that includes a salary increase but removes the exit clause in his current contract.
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Currently, Verstappen is contracted with the Austrian team until the end of 2028. The agreement includes a clause that allows the driver to leave the team if he is not among the top two in the drivers’ championship during the summer break. Since he is in sixth place in the standings, the Dutchman is eligible to activate this condition if he wishes. According to the publication, he has until mid-October to make a decision and shows no rush to define his future.
Also according to Bild, Red Bull’s strategy has changed compared to previously released information. Instead of trying to buy out the exit clause in the current contract, the team would be seeking to convince Verstappen to sign a new agreement.
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The proposal would extend the contract until the end of 2029 and include a salary increase. In return, the new contract would not have an exit clause, which would prevent the driver from leaving Red Bull based on his position in the championship.
The German newspaper states that the decision is now in Verstappen’s hands. The offer was reportedly sent to the driver’s staff a few weeks ago, but so far no official response has been given. As this is information published by Bild, there has been no official confirmation from Red Bull or the driver about the negotiations.
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