Speculation continues to mount over Max Verstappen's future with Red Bull Racing as the team's performance has declined in recent months.
The four-time world champion has been increasingly linked with potential moves to rival teams, with Mercedes and Aston Martin emerging as the most likely destinations.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has made no secret of his admiration for Verstappen, while Aston Martin, now with former Red Bull powerhouse Andy Cowell in their ranks, has also been mentioned prominently in paddock rumours.
The ongoing speculation has forced Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko to address the situation directly.
Helmut Marko has tried to end rumours about Max Verstappen's future
GETTY"Summer break, same story. Everything is far too early," Marko told the media, suggesting that the summer break could be a crucial period for decisions about Verstappen's future.
When directly questioned about whether Verstappen would remain with Red Bull in 2026, Marko was unequivocal: "He has a contract until '28."
The Austrian did acknowledge that performance-related exit clauses exist in Verstappen's contract, as they do in most Formula 1 drivers' agreements.
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"All contracts have clauses which are mainly on performance, but that's not relevant at the moment," Marko stated, dismissing immediate concerns about the Dutchman's departure.
Marko believes the solution to quieting the rumours lies squarely with Red Bull's performance on track.
"No, we hope that we bring the necessary quality of our car, then all these discussions are gone," the Red Bull advisor explained.
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Rumours will continue to swirl at the Dutchman's future Reuters The team's recent dip in form has coincided with stronger performances from rivals, fuelling speculation about Verstappen's future despite his long-term contract.
Red Bull dominated Formula 1 in recent seasons, but their technical advantage has eroded in 2025, leading to questions about whether they can continue to provide Verstappen with championship-winning machinery.
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The situation has created a clear challenge for the Milton Keynes-based team.
Marko emphasised that despite the speculation, Verstappen's intentions remain clear for now.
"At the moment everything is clear. He also said he wants to fulfil this contract," Marko revealed.
Helmut Marko is confident Max Verstappen will stay with Red Bull Reuters However, the Red Bull advisor made it abundantly clear that retaining their star driver depends entirely on the team's ability to provide him with a competitive package.
"But we have to deliver a car which makes him winning, or at least have a chance to fight for the championships," Marko stated.
This candid admission underscores the pressure Red Bull faces to reverse their recent performance decline if they hope to keep Verstappen beyond the summer break and through to the end of his contract.
