Max Verstappen 'certain' to stay at Red Bull after Martin Brundle 'conversation'

Martin Brundle believes Max Verstappen is "certain" to stay at Red Bull for 2026 following a Belgian GP "conversation."

Verstappen's short and long-term future at Red Bull has been called into question following an alarming drop in performance over the last 12 months, with Christian Horner being sacked as team principal and CEO after the British GP. 

The world champion has been subject to interest from Mercedes and Aston Martin, with Toto Wolff keen to lure the Dutchman for 2026, but the possibility of a stunning switch for next season appears to have cooled.

Wolff recently indicated that his "absolute priority" was to continue with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for 2026, when F1's technical regulations are set to undergo sweeping changes. 

Given the scale of the changes, for any driver looking to move team, 2027 represents a better prospect to do so, once the new pecking order is established. 

Analysing Verstappen's position, Brundle revealed a "conversation" he had held, which seemed to signal where Verstappen would drive in 2026.

"I think that is part of it," Brundle explained on Sky Sports F1 when asked if Horner's dismissal was to do with performance-related concerns.

"[On Thursday], Max was like: 'It is all about having a fast car, I just want a fast car,' and I think [Horner's exit] means he will now stay. 

"I'm certain he will now stay at Red Bull for 2026 and see what happens, a conversation I had last night seemed to confirm that.

"But the performance is not exactly diabolical, is it? With a wet Sunday here, he could win the grand prix, and the team's got momentum."