Written by Hugh Waring, Edited by Esmée Koppius
The 2021 World Champion Max Verstappen has signed a new long term contract with Red Bull Racing, lasting until 2028.
The contract has been reported to be worth up to €50m per year. A deal being close to Mercedes's contract with Lewis Hamilton. The Dutchman already had a contract until the end of 2023, but this new seven-year contract is possibly the longest deal signed in F1.
Verstappen said: “I really 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 added: “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.”
The decision made by Red Bull to extend Verstappen’s contract is a logical and predicted announcement. This is due to its rivals signing long-term contracts with the next generation of drivers. McLaren has signed Norris until 2025, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Alpine’s Esteban Ocon have a contract until 2024, whilst Mercedes' George Russell has also signed a long-term contract.
If the Dutchman completes this contract, it would mean that he will become the record holder for most race starts with a single team.
Verstappen starts his title defence in two weeks' time at the season opener in Bahrain. He will run the no.1 on his car.
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