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Verstappen bats off future questions and ‘assumptions’

Max Verstappen refused to be drawn on his future at the British Grand Prix, amid reports he is open to a switch to Mercedes in 2026.

Sky Italy claims Verstappen and Mercedes have held concrete discussions about a move next season, with Red Bull falling far behind McLaren this year and the Mercedes power unit expected to be strong in 2026. Verstappen was asked about weighing up a familiar environment against a new team at such a time of change, but stated he wasn’t currently making such a choice.

“There is no decision at the moment,” Verstappen said. “So, for me, it’s not about ’26 or whatever. I just focus on what I have ahead of me, work with the team. Then, of course, a lot of people make up assumptions, but that’s not me.

“I have nothing else to add compared to what I said last week, to be honest.”

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In Austria, Verstappen failed to commit to Red Bull in 2026 when given the chance, and again declined to do so, also refusing to discuss whether he has a clause in his contract –  that runs until 2028 –  that would allow him to leave.

“I’m not speaking about my contract, to be honest. I think it’s a bit easier like that for everyone,” he said. “Like I said last week, that’s all that I have to say about it.”

With George Russell saying earlier on Thursday that he felt Mercedes gives him t he best opportunity to win a drivers’ championship despite multiple unknowns, Verstappen did not give the same endorsement to Red Bull.

“I think no one can say 100% sure that they will be fully comfortable next year,” he said. “There will be so many unknowns anyway for next year. The only thing that I have to do is drive whatever I have fast.”