Max Verstappen to stay with Red Bull until 2028

The 24-year-old Dutchman now sits pretty on the longest F1 contract of any driver on the grid. His current deal was due to end at the end of the 2023 season, but having just won the 2021 title and being widely regarded as potentially one of the best drivers ever, it’s no wonder Red Bull is quite happy to keep hold of him.

Reports suggest the new deal is worth somewhere between €40-50m (£33.3-41.7m) a year, making it one of the most lucrative in Formula 1.

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 team 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.”