Max Verstappen Confirms He's Sticking With Red Bull In 2025 Despite Rumors Of A Move To Mercedes

Formula 1 is in Austria this weekend, which means it's Red Bull's home race, and as such, some big news from the home team came out on Thursday: Max Verstappen confirmed that he will be part of Red Bull's lineup in 2025.

Yes, I know he's under contract with the team until 2028, but there's usually a way to get out of these contracts, especially if you're a multi-time champ like Verstappen is.

Plus, with the turmoil at Red Bull toward the beginning of the season, there were plenty of rumors that Verstappen would make a blockbuster switch to Mercedes as early as 2025.

But according to the man himself, that's not the case.

"I think I’ve said this before," Verstappen said, per Motorsport.com. "I mean naturally of course people are talking, but it’s most important just that we have a very competitive car for the future. At the moment of course it’s very tight, but we are working very well as a team to try and improve more.

"And for sure, I said this already with the team, we’re working and focusing on next year to try and be competitive again."

Max Verstappen confirmed to reporters ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix that he will be part of Red Bull's lineup in 2025. (Photo by Joe Klamar / AFP) (Photo by JOE KLAMAR/AFP via Getty Images)

Considering things have tightened this season, with McLaren especially giving him and Red Bull some competition, Verstappen was asked if he still might jump ship ahead of next season.

"I don’t think that’s how Formula 1 works – where then suddenly you can say, ‘well, bye guys’. It’s not how it works," he said. "I have a long contract with the team, I’m very happy where I’m at and, like I said before, we’re focusing also already on next year with things we can implement on the car.

"So, I guess that should say enough of where I’m driving next year."

Who knows what could happen beyond 2025, especially with regulations coming in 2026 that are bound to shake up the running order? However, it appears that come spring 2025 Red Bull will be fielding the same lineup they've had since 2021: Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.

And, frankly, why would they change? They've won three drivers' championships and two constructors' championships in that time. 

Sure there was turmoil within the team over the last few months, but if Verstappen is willing to drive for them, I'm sure Red Bull is just fine with that.