Early exit predicted: 'Verstappen to no longer drive for Red Bull in '26''

"It will be difficult for Christian to keep Max on board," Doornbos said in the Crash in the Kitchen. However, during the press conference in Las Vegas, Verstappen did say that he is loyal to Red Bull, despite rumours about having talks with Mercedes, when the Austrians experienced issues. A switch is not on the list at the moment, the Dutchman hinted. 

"Did you expect him to say something different after winning a fourth world title?" said Doornbos. And then why didn't Verstappen say that he would need a better car in 2025 for him wanting to stay at Red Bull. "You can't do that either. What more do you need to develop it? The regulations don't change. You can't expect to get a completely different concept car. Believe me now: in 2026 he won't be there."

Verstappen to Mercedes?

The Ziggo Sport analyst still thinks Mercedes have the best chance of signing Verstappen. That the German team still not having the fastest car does not matter at all. "Lewis Hamilton did not have the best car aerodynamically and mechanically for seven years. They had a cannon of an engine. I think you need that in 2026."

In 2026, in addition to new regulations in terms of the chassis of the cars, new power units will also be introduced in the competition. Red Bull will run with their own engines for the first time from that year onwards. Compared to Mercedes and Ferrari - where power units have been built for ages - Red Bull Powertrains seems to be a bit behind in terms of experience, and perhaps therefore knowledge.

This article was written in collaboration with Kada Sárközi

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