When critical Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso F1 futures could be decided

The 2026 driver market has several crunch points where decisions are expected to be made around the time of the Hungarian Grand Prix, the final race before the summer break.

The biggest question remains the same: what will be the final outcome of the discussions between Max Verstappen and Red Bull?

Red Bull's upgrade package in Austria looked promising right from the start, and the general consensus in the paddock leans toward the view that this could be crucial in the conversations between the driver and the team about the future together.

Verstappen has never left any doubt about his loyalty to Red Bull. However, in light of a weaker-than-expected start to the season and a prolonged catch-up process, it is understandable that he wants guarantees regarding future competitiveness. 

The Spielberg package certainly demonstrated that there is still a huge potential in the energy drink firm's team. If they can build on this momentum, it could sway the Dutch superstar to opt against activating his exit clause.

Given how vital the driver is to the Red Bull universe, decision-makers will likely spare no expense. Thus, the few remaining races before the summer break might be enough to reach an agreement, leading the 28-year-old driver to recommit to the team—potentially even beyond his current contract that is expiring in 2028. 

Since leaked information suggests that the frequently mentioned exit clause can be validated after the Hungarian GP, unless it happens earlier, the Hungaroring weekend would theoretically be an optimal time to declare the much-awaited commitment.

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Will Alonso see hope at Aston Martin?

The Hungarian race weekend could also be crucial for Fernando Alonso. His manager, Flavio Briatore, wants to lure the two-time world champion back to Enstone for a fourth stint - in alliance with Gucci this time. 

However, before making a decision, the driver wants to see how the Aston Martin performs with its highly anticipated upgrade package - that will debut at the Hungaroring, instead of Spa.

Alonso made his transfer decision during the Hungarian race weekend back in 2023, and according to RacingNews365's sources, he definitely does not want to commit before seeing if there is any hope for the Silverstone-based team heading into 2027. 

The Spanish star's contract expires at the end of the season, and according to our information, his future depends solely on his own choice. The team would be happy to keep him, and Lawrence Stroll would certainly offer a generous compensation package.

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Clock is ticking at Haas

Haas is expected to make a move regarding Esteban Ocon around the Hungaroring race weekend, as according to RacingNews365's sources, the team’s option on the French driver’s services expires at the end of July. 

In recent weeks, the paddock has been buzzing with rumours that their partnership will not continue after 2026. 

Although the general consensus in the motorsport community leans towards this outcome, there were visible signs during the Austrian race weekend that discussions are still ongoing between the driver, his management, and team’s leadership.

A whole host of drivers are vying for Ocon's seat, and in the event of a split, other opportunities could still open for the Frenchman as well. As RacingNews365 previously reported, Aston Martin could be a strong possibility for Ocon. 

If Alonso decides to move, the 29-year-old driver could be a potential replacement as he is a one-time grand prix winner, has racing experience in the 2026 regulatory framework, and it is also a significant factor that he shares a close friendship with Aston Martin's other driver, Lance Stroll.

Even if Alonso stays with Aston Martin, the team remains an option for Ocon. Rumours circulating in the paddock suggest a scenario where, if the Spaniard remains, the experienced French driver could be signed as a third driver, with an optional chance for a 2028 race seat.

Sources suggest to RN365 that there are other teams who are ready to offer Ocon a similar construction, a third driver role for 2027 and a chance of a race seat for 2028.