The World champion, Max Verstappen has signed a five-year contract extension with the Formula 1 team, Red Bull that will keep him with the team until at least the end of 2028.
In the highly dramatic and controversial circumstances, the Dutchman snatched the drivers’ title from the seven-time champion, Lewis Hamilton on the final lap of the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2021 to win his first world championship.
His previous contract was set to expire at the end of the next season, but both parties were eager to extend what had become a very successful partnership.
Verstappen made his F1 debut with Red Bull’s junior team, Toro Rosso, in 2015 and was promoted to the senior team ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix. He quickly proved why he was so highly regarded by winning the race in Barcelona, making him the youngest Grand Prix winner at the age of 18 years and 228 days.
Since then, the 24-year-old has won 20 races and appeared on the podium 60 times.
On the extension of the partnership, Verstappen said, “I enjoy being part of Red Bull Racing, so choosing to stay to the 2028 season was an easy decision. I love this team and last year was simply incredible. Our goal since we came together in 2016 was to win the championship and we have done that, so now it’s about keeping the number one on the car long-term.”
Red Bull boss Christian Horner, commented, “To have Max signed with Red Bull through to the end of ‘28 is a real statement of intent. Our immediate focus is on retaining Max’s world championship title, but this deal also shows he is part of the team’s long-term planning. With the Red Bull Powertrains division working towards the new engine regulations for 2026 we wanted to make sure we had the best driver on the grid secured for that car.”