As we mentioned on this week’s podcast, the best place for Max Verstappen is exactly where he is and today, he agreed with us…or at least we were right in our guessing. Red Bull did the logical thing and presumably wrote a big check to Max Verstappen to retain his services through 2023.
The move puts to bed all the rumors of a special relationship he has with Mercedes and perhaps the uncertainty at the German team with Toto Wolff and Lewis Hamilton’s contracts, Max reckoned he’d stay where is is.
The idea of going to Ferrari was probably taken off the table when Charles Leclerc signed a deal through 2024. Here is the official statement.
Press Release:
The Team is pleased to announce a contract extension with Max to race with us until the end of the 2023 season.
Max became the youngest ever race winner in his inaugural season with the Team in 2016. The eight-time Grand Prix winner has since become an integral member of the Team and a driver whose determination to win truly embodies the Red Bull ethos.
Max said; “I am really happy to have extended my partnership with the Team. Red Bull believed in me and gave me the opportunity to start in Formula 1 which I have always been very grateful for. Over the years I have grown closer and closer with the Team and besides the passion from everyone and the on-track performance it is also really enjoyable to work with such a great group of people. Honda coming onboard and the progress we have made over the last 12 months gives me even more motivation and the belief that we can win together. I respect the way Red Bull and Honda work together and from all sides everyone is doing what they can to succeed. I want to win with Red Bull and our goal is of course to fight for a World Championship together.”
Commenting on the extension, Team Principal Christian Horner said; “It is fantastic news for the Team to have extended our agreement with Max up-to and including the 2023 season. With the challenge of the 2021 regulation changes on the horizon continuity in as many areas as possible is key. Max has proven what an asset he is to the Team, he truly believes in the partnership we have forged with our engine supplier Honda, and we are delighted to have extended our relationship with him.”
