March 21, (THEWILL) – Three-time Formula One world champion, Max Verstappen, has affirmed his commitment to Red Bull Racing despite recent off-track controversies involving team management.
The 26-year-old Dutchman, speaking ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, insisted he intends to honour his contract which runs until 2028.
Verstappen’s future with the Milton Keynes-based team was called into question after his father Jos suggested Red Bull faced internal struggles that could “tear apart” the outfit if team principal Christian Horner remained in charge. Horner was cleared of misconduct allegations prior to the season opener.
While acknowledging the importance of stability, Verstappen expressed confidence in Red Bull’s core personnel. “For me, it is like a second family,” he stated. “When you have a successful team with a good group of people, it is important to keep them together, happy and in their roles.”
The reigning world champion dismissed speculation linking him to Mercedes, telling reporters “It’s always nice to hear that” when quizzed on potential interest from the Silver Arrows. However, Verstappen remained focused on the present, targeting an unprecedented tenth consecutive race win in Melbourne.
Despite the off-track noise, Verstappen has started 2024 in blistering form, winning the opening two rounds in Bahrain and Jeddah. Victory in Australia would see him equal his record streak of 10 wins in a row.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
