Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands attends a news conference ahead of the Dutch Formula One Grand Prix in Zandvoort, Netherlands, Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)
\n\nRed Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands walks away after a news conference ahead of the Dutch Formula One Grand Prix in Zandvoort, Netherlands, Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)
\n\nSecond placed Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands celebrates after the Formula One Hungarian Grand Prix auto race, at the Hungaroring racetrack in Mogyorod, near Budapest, Hungary, Sunday, July 26, 2026. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)
\n\nZANDVOORT, Netherlands (AP) — Max Verstappen says he seriously considered leaving Formula 1 before the four-time champion instead committed to four more years with Red Bull on Thursday.
\n\nThe announcement of his contract extension ahead of Verstappen’s home Dutch Grand Prix this weekend ends speculation that he could seek a blockbuster move to another team or quit the sport.
\n\nIt comes despite Red Bull struggling to match the pace of leading team Mercedes this season, and Verstappen’s own frustration with how much the 2026 cars rely on electrical power.
\n\n“After the first few races (this year), I said to Laurent (Mekies, Red…
Original source: https://apnews.com/business