Sep.20 (GMM) Max Verstappen’s manager Raymond Vermeulen says the quadruple world champion could yet stay at Red Bull for life – but only if the team delivers the equipment to win.
“Before the summer break, it was clear that we’re committed to Red Bull for 2026,” Vermeulen told De Telegraaf newspaper in Baku. “I think it’s the right decision.
“Even if Max could have triggered his performance clause, it’s questionable whether he would have done so.”
Vermeulen, who co-manages the Dutchman with Max’s father Jos, admitted there were moments in the past when leaving Red Bull was considered. “Of course. There have been times when Red Bull really came up short,” he said.
“It’s understandable then that you think to yourself – what if we fall even further? But just look at the seasons. Red Bull has always found its way back up at some point.”
Looking ahead, Vermeulen said the sweeping 2026 regulations will define Verstappen’s path beyond 2026. “Max wants to win more championships in the future,” he said. “He’s not ready yet in that regard, but he is dependent on the equipment.
“So I think 2026 will be a very important year, in which his future in Formula 1 will be determined.”
On interest from rivals like Mercedes and potentially even McLaren, Vermeulen was blunt. “It’s not all that exciting, you know. Everyone’s calling everyone.
“Or don’t you think Toto (Wolff) is calling Charles Leclerc? That’s just another puzzle everyone’s trying to solve for themselves,” he said.
Vermeulen indicated that Red Bull’s flexibility with Verstappen’s wider racing interests – like his new Nordschleife adventures – is important.
“Max has a lot of freedom at Red Bull. We’ve always been open about Max’s wishes,” he said. “And they see Max blossom when he talks about racing a GT3 car, for example.
“And what’s better than having a happy driver in your team?”
Away from F1, Verstappen remains deeply engaged in sim racing and the Verstappen.com Racing operation, and even has an offshoot company called ‘Pro Simulation’ that assists drivers in the virtual world.
As for Vermeulen’s own role, he laughed: “I’m working on it seven days a week. It’s very diverse – from sponsorships to contracts to personal matters. All in all, we work with a team of about 25 people. It’s a real undertaking.
“And it feels like a fantastic story that we’re still working on.”
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2025 United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas at the Circuit of the Americas - one of the world's finest racing circuits. This year's event features one of six Sprint races on the F1 schedule. Grand Prix Tours offers a fully appointed, personally tailored race experience for passionate enthusiasts at what has become a great American tradition and another anticipated sold-out event.
SHOW PACKAGES
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES