The decision by Max Verstappen to sign a contract extension with Red Bull until 2030 has shaken up the Zandvoort paddock. It's not just about loyalty, but the figures swirling around behind the scenes that have captured widespread attention.
Verstappen described the Milton Keynes-based team as a "second family." However, behind those warm words, the negotiations were far from smooth. The Dutchman arrived at the table with strong leverage thanks to a performance clause that could have freed him from his contract at the end of 2026.
That clause became Verstappen's key weapon in demanding a significant salary increase. Red Bull, in turn, didn't hold back; to keep their four-time world champion, they offered a financial package reportedly unmatched by any other team.
While official details remain undisclosed, a report from Marc Limacher, author of the Business Book GP yearbook that often covers Formula 1's commercial aspects, suggests Verstappen will receive a base salary of 92 million euros per year starting in 2027—up from his current 70 million. With bonuses, that figure could reach 115 million euros per season.
Over four years, that totals around 460 million euros—nearly half a billion. A sum almost impossible to refuse, and a clear signal of how Red Bull views Verstappen as the cornerstone of their technical rebuild following several high-profile departures.
Beyond the financial aspect, Verstappen also hinted at his hopes for future regulation changes. He wants Formula 1 to move back toward a more "racing" direction—a statement underscoring that his decision to stay is not purely about money, but also about long-term vision.
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