Formula 1 and Red Bull tremble: a clause allows Max Verstappen to leave
Max Verstappen saying goodbye to Formula 1 is an increasingly less improbable prospect, and not only because of the constant complaints and constant display of nervousness the Dutch star is showing in these first months on the track in 2026. The reason lies in a far-from-irrelevant detail in his contract, and one that is being much discussed at a very delicate stage of the season: a whole month without races, after the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
In England ‘The Telegraph’ has in fact reconstructed the extremes accepted by Red Bull when renewing Verstappen’s contract. The driver, who driving for the Anglo-Austrian team has guaranteed himself the conquest of four consecutive world titles between 2021 and 2024, has in fact obtained a clause that would allow him to release himself at the end of the season in the event that, when it comes to the mid-season summer break, he does not occupy one of the first two positions in the standings. A condition that, as things stand, appears almost impossible to achieve.
After all, Verstappen’s dissatisfaction appears clear for a long time, even before the 2026 season officially kicked off. A position reiterated even after the Japanese Grand Prix, which ended in eighth place at the end of a long battle with Pierre Gasly (Alpine), who preceded him to the finish line. “I don’t appreciate this Formula 1 anymore,” the 28-year-old told the BBC, “Am I thinking about retirement? That’s what I’m saying. I am reflecting on everything that happens in this paddock. There are 22 races and I’m asking myself: is it worth it, or would I prefer to stay more at home with my family, see my friends, since I don’t have fun anymore?”
The four-time world champion went on to clarify that the node is not the results: “I know you can’t win or fight for the podium every time, but I don’t enjoy it. I try to adapt, however, it is not nice the way you have to race. It’s counterproductive to driving, and at some point, I think it’s not what I want to do anymore.”
Finally, Verstappen reiterated what really matters to him, “It’s nice to win and make money, but I want to be here to have fun, have good times and enjoy the race. At the moment that’s just not the case.”
