– Max Verstappen has clearly confirmed for the first time that he will also race in Formula 1 in 2027. After months of speculation about his long-term future, the world champion is at least sending a clear first signal.
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“Yes, definitely,” Verstappen answers when asked if he will still be active in Formula 1 in 2027. Only “very crazy things” could still change that, the Dutchman explains to De Telegraaf – but currently he does not expect that.
New engines give Verstappen hope
The focus of the discussion remains the controversial 2026 regulations, especially the new balance between combustion and electric engines. Verstappen has recently been critical of the development of the new power units several times. However, he now indicates that the recent adjustments are heading in the right direction.
In the future, the ratio between combustion and electric share should be approximately 60 to 40 – depending on the respective track. “It’s not perfect yet, but a step in the right direction,” says Verstappen. Especially compared to the previous situation, he sees a clear improvement.
This makes it clear: the current development of the rules is likely to have been an important factor in Verstappen now viewing his Formula 1 future much more positively.
Red Bull? Verstappen leaves team open
His statement about his own team future is much less clear. Although Verstappen again emphasizes his close connection to Red Bull, he does not give a long-term guarantee. “I would love to be connected to Red Bull my whole life,” he explains.
At the same time, the Dutchman makes it clear that his future is not just about a classic Formula 1 contract. “It involves much more than just Formula 1,” says Verstappen, referring to various projects outside the racing series that he is currently also discussing with Red Bull.
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No rush in decision-making
What stands out especially is the calmness with which Verstappen talks about his future. Unlike in recent months, the world champion appears much more relaxed. “We don’t have to dramatize this,” he explains.
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Whether his long-term future lies with Red Bull or “elsewhere” is currently not decisive. He feels no time pressure regarding this decision. Thus, despite his fundamental commitment to Formula 1, Verstappen keeps all options open.
No sabbatical: If he stops, then completely
Verstappen’s statement about a possible early career end is also interesting. At the beginning of the year, he had publicly spoken about wanting to leave Formula 1 earlier at some point.
However, he has never seriously considered a sabbatical or a break. “If I stop, I stop completely,” Verstappen makes clear. That simply does not fit his character. Currently, retirement is “not a topic at all.”
Even though Verstappen has now confirmed his stay in Formula 1, the most important future question remains open: Where will he race in 2027?
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Because while the Dutchman on the one hand emphasizes his loyalty to Red Bull, he simultaneously makes it clear that his decisions go far beyond pure Formula 1. And that is exactly why the Verstappen topic is likely to continue to dominate the driver market in the coming months.
