Introduction to Max Verstappen and His Significance in Formula 1
Max Verstappen, a prominent Dutch Formula 1 driver, has been confirmed to remain with Red Bull Racing until at least the 2026 season. This decision ensures his continued opportunity to break more records and solidify his position as one of the sport’s top earners.
Verstappen’s Rising Salary and Impact on Formula 1
Verstappen joined Red Bull’s then-Toro Rosso team in 2015, and his salary has grown exponentially since. In 2017, he surpassed the $1 million mark and reached double-digit millions by 2018. However, his earnings skyrocketed in 2021 when he won his first World Drivers’ Championship title, placing him second among the highest-paid Formula 1 drivers with $42 million, just behind Lewis Hamilton’s $62 million.
The real economic boom for Verstappen came in 2023, when he became the highest-paid Formula 1 driver with a staggering $70 million salary. He maintained this top position in 2024 with $55 million and in 2025 with $65 million, according to Spotrac.
Red Bull Racing has paid Max Verstappen over $310 million across 11 seasons, with the 2015 and part of 2016 salaries attributed to Toro Rosso, the team’s junior sibling.
Rumors and Verstappen’s Confirmation
Recently, rumors circulated that Verstappen might leave Red Bull early, with Mercedes and Aston Martin showing interest. Mercedes’ team principal, Toto Wolff, even confirmed their interest in signing Verstappen. However, these rumors were dispelled when Verstappen addressed them during the Hungarian Grand Prix pre-event, stating his intention to stay with Red Bull.
The 2026 Season: A Formula 1 Laboratory
The upcoming season will serve as a testing ground for Formula 1, with new competition rules on engines and chassis, as well as the debut of two teams: Audi and Cadillac. Audi will replace Sauber, while Cadillac will become the 11th team. This scenario allows Verstappen and other drivers to observe new team performances, potentially influencing their decision to switch teams.
Verstappen’s Current Standing in the 2025 Drivers’ Championship
As of 13 races in the 2025 season, Max Verstappen sits third in the Drivers’ Championship with only two race wins (Japan and Imola). He trails the leader, Oscar Piastri of McLaren, by 81 points. This position suggests Verstappen may not extend his streak of four consecutive World Drivers’ Championship titles, but he will have another chance in 2026 before potentially leaving Red Bull.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Why is Max Verstappen’s continued presence with Red Bull significant?
A: Verstappen’s decision to stay with Red Bull until 2026 ensures his continued opportunity to break records and solidify his position as one of Formula 1’s top earners.
- Q: How has Max Verstappen’s salary evolved throughout his career?
A: Verstappen’s salary has grown significantly since joining Red Bull’s Toro Rosso team in 2015. He surpassed $1 million in 2017, reached double-digit millions by 2018, and became the highest-paid Formula 1 driver in 2023 with a $70 million salary.
- Q: What makes the 2026 Formula 1 season special?
A: The 2026 season will serve as a laboratory for Formula 1, with new competition rules and the debut of Audi and Cadillac teams, allowing drivers like Verstappen to evaluate new team performances.
- Q: Where does Max Verstappen stand in the 2025 Drivers’ Championship?
A: After 13 races, Verstappen is third in the Drivers’ Championship with two race wins. He trails leader Oscar Piastri of McLaren by 81 points, which may impact his streak of consecutive World Drivers’ Championship titles.
