Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has insisted that Max Verstappen "is staying" with the Milton Keynes-based outfit, following the discovery of talks with Mercedes.
It was confirmed by Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff on the opening day of the Austrian Grand Prix that talks had been held with the four-time world champion.
On media day at the Red Bull Ring, George Russell revealed that his own contract negotiations with the Silver Arrows had been delayed, due to Verstappen's conversations with Wolff.
Verstappen has been linked to Mercedes for several months; however, the current conversations have a stronger intent than in the past.
The 27-year-old does have a contract to remain where he is until the end of 2028, although various exit clauses could allow him to leave Red Bull – the current season is his 10th with them.
When asked by Sky DE if sticking with Red Bull is the obvious choice, Marko insisted: "He has driven his whole career with us and that he actually feels good in the team.
"We fell back to behind McLaren at the beginning of the season. We have to put down a car again with which he can race again."
One of Verstappen's exit clauses is believed to be that he can leave the Austrian outfit if he is not in the top three of the F1 drivers' title by the summer break.
Ahead of the 11th round on Sunday, the reigning world champion is third in the standings, meaning that, for now, that clause cannot be activated in the summer.
"That kind of clause and everything around it is not topical at the moment," said Marko.
Despite all the speculation surrounding Verstappen moving to Mercedes, Marko is confident a move will not take place.
The 82-year-old added: "Well, according to the current state of affairs, it is clear that Max is staying with us."
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