Max Verstappen Manager Warns Red Bull Over Future

Raymond Vermeulen, manager of Max Verstappen, has warned Red Bull Racing that the team must return to the front if it wants to secure the long-term future of the four-time Formula 1 world champion.

The comments come as speculation surrounding Verstappen's future continues to grow. Although he remains under contract until the end of 2028, reports suggest the agreement contains performance-related clauses that could open the door to an earlier departure if competitive targets are not met.

Vermeulen stressed that Verstappen and Red Bull remain committed to their current project, but emphasised that the partnership has always been built on the expectation of fighting for victories rather than competing in the midfield.

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"Our goal is to see this adventure through together with Red Bull. The spirit of Red Bull and the spirit of Verstappen are a good fit. But we do need a package that allows us to compete at the front. Max wasn't born to compete in the midfield," said Vermeulen.

He added that the priority is improving the performance of the RB22 rather than discussing whether Verstappen will stay or leave. According to Vermeulen, both parties remain committed to the agreements already in place while focusing on making the car more competitive.

Red Bull has introduced a major upgrade package for the Austrian Grand Prix in an effort to improve its performance for the remainder of the season. The success of that development programme is expected to play a significant role in keeping Verstappen fighting at the front and reducing speculation over his future.