Verstappen guidelines out early exit from Pink Bull subsequent 12 months · F1 · RaceFans

Max Verstappen has quelled hypothesis over his rapid future by confirming he’ll drive for Pink Bull once more subsequent 12 months.

The world champion is contracted to drive for Pink Bull till 2028 however his future was referred to as into query earlier within the 12 months amid studies of an influence wrestle inside the group within the wake of an investigation into alleged inappropriate behaviour by Christian Horner.

An inner investigation cleared Horner, following which a workers member was suspended, although she is now reported to have lodged an enchantment. Across the similar time Pink Bull motorsport guide Helmut Marko claimed he was to be suspended by the group.

That didn’t occur, although on the time it prompted Verstappen to warn: “it’s vital that he stays a part of the group additionally for me.”

Mercedes are rumoured to have courted Verstappen as a possible substitute for Lewis Hamilton when he leaves to affix Ferrari subsequent 12 months. This week Mercedes group co-owner Ola Kallenius remarked the Pink Bull driver would “look good in silver”.

Nonetheless Verstappen stated right this moment he is not going to stroll out on Pink Bull on the finish of the 12 months if their automobile is not aggressive. “I don’t suppose that’s how Components 1 works the place then all of a sudden you possibly can say, ‘nicely, bye guys’. It’s not the way it works.

“I’ve an extended contract with the group, I’m very joyful the place I’m at. And like I stated earlier than, we’re focusing additionally already on subsequent 12 months with issues that we will implement, on the automobile.

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“So I assume that ought to say sufficient earlier than I’m driving subsequent 12 months.”

Having dominated final season and begun this 12 months strongly, Pink Bull have confronted stronger competitors from their rivals in current races. Verstappen stated his purpose is to have a aggressive automobile.

“Naturally in fact individuals are speaking, nevertheless it’s most vital simply that we’ve a really aggressive automobile for the long run. In the intervening time, in fact, it’s very tight, however we’re working very nicely as a group to try to enhance extra. For certain, I stated this already with the group, we’re working and focusing additionally on subsequent 12 months to try to be aggressive once more.”

Earlier this month Pink Bull prolonged the contract of Sergio Perez, who has been Verstappen’s group mate since 2021. The duo will kind Pink Bull’s longest serving driver pairing.