Huge Verstappen Red Bull exit further away than it seems

Max Verstappen and Red Bull has become one of the most dominant partnerships in the history of Formula 1. 

The Dutchman has claimed four consecutive F1 drivers' titles, whilst three constructors' championships have been won in the last four years. 

However, rumours of Verstappen leaving Red Bull have arisen over the past 12 months, mostly caused by the in-house turmoil in 2024 and the problems with the RB20 and RB21.

Last season, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff quickly made his interest in Verstappen known, but opted to promote teenage sensation Kimi Antonelli instead.

Verstappen insisted as recently as the Chinese Grand Prix that he remains happy with Red Bull, and is contracted until the end of 2028. 

Despite this, rumours of a shock exit have not disappeared, due to McLaren's early advantage and the difficulties being experienced with the RB21. 

In addition, the four-time world champion is known to be unhappy over Red Bull's decision to swap Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda.

However, a Verstappen departure from the Austrian outfit is further away than it seems. The 27-year-old choosing to leave Red Bull would result in major interest, but very few options are actually available.

Only Mercedes has both of its seats to fill for next year, although Wolff has already hinted that the Silver Arrows are pushing to sort contract extensions for both George Russell and Antonelli.

Aston Martin is another team who have been linked to Verstappen. Although, the British team has Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll under contract until the end of 2026, meaning one driver would have to leave for Verstappen to arrive next season.

Ferrari and McLaren are also both off the cards, with both teams having its seats already filled for next year and beyond. All the signs point to sticking with Red Bull.

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