Red Bull Confirms Max Verstappen Will Stay Despite Mercedes Talks

Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has stated that Max Verstappen will remain with the team despite talks with Mercedes. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff confirmed the discussions during the Austrian Grand Prix. George Russell mentioned that his contract negotiations with Mercedes were affected by Verstappen's talks with Wolff. Verstappen, who has been linked to Mercedes, has a contract with Red Bull until 2028 with possible exit clauses. Marko emphasized that Verstappen has been with Red Bull for his entire career and feels comfortable in the team. Verstappen's clause to leave Red Bull if he is not in the top three of the F1 drivers' title by the summer break is currently not applicable as he is third in the standings. Marko is confident that Verstappen will not move to Mercedes, stating that it is clear Max will stay with Red Bull.