David Coulthard says Max Verstappen will remain with Red Bull even if he leaves the F1 team

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David Coulthard expects Max Verstappen to continue his relationship with Red Bull even if he decides to leave the Formula 1 team in 2026.

Speculation is rife about the Dutchman’s future in F1 as he expresses frustration over the 2026 regulations. He has hinted that he is considering leaving the sport.

Red Bull have not started the new era well, sitting sixth in the constructors’ championship after three races. This, combined with key figures such as Gianpiero Lambiase leaving Red Bull for McLaren, has cast doubt over Verstappen’s future with the team.

Will Max Verstappen keep his word as Gianperio Lambiase leaves Red Bull?

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Father Jos Verstappen does not think Max will retire purely based on Lambiase’s exit. After all, the Verstappen camp signed off on his departure and told him to seize the opportunity at McLaren, which he will take in 2028.

Verstappen is free to leave Red Bull in 2026 with an exit clause in his contract. But should he decide to walk away, Coulthard does not think their marriage will simply end.

David Coulthard thinks Max Verstappen and Red Bull’s relationship ‘will endure’

Speaking on the Up To Speed podcast, Coulthard thinks the two parties’ relationship ‘will endure’. He does not see Verstappen completely ending his association with Red Bull.

“I think the relationship between Max and Red Bull will endure, whether it’s him racing for them in Formula 1 in the future.

“But I think the bond that’s there between Austria and Max Verstappen and his family is something that will… I don’t expect to see him suddenly turn up as Monster athlete.

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“But clearly, as I said earlier, nothing lasts forever in this game and Max is a competitive animal and if Red Bull are struggling longer term…

“When I say longer term, I mean longer term this year, to show signs that they’re getting back towards winning ways in the future, then of course he’s going to look at where his career is best served.”

READ MORE: Red Bull driver Max Verstappen’s life outside F1 from net worth to girlfriend

Where would Max Verstappen go if he decides to leave Red Bull?

Verstappen has until October at the latest to decide his future and activate his exit clause. Several teams will be interested in his services, but given how the 2026 regulations are, it would not be a surprise to see him leave F1 altogether.

Mercedes have long been linked with the Dutchman, but with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli’s current form, a move may now be difficult.

With Lambiase joining McLaren, rumours are already swirling that the four-time champion could join the Woking outfit at some point. In fact, Lambiase is ‘putting in a good word’ for Verstappen at McLaren, hinting at a potential reunion.

Verstappen could also replace Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari, with reports stating that he could retire at the end of 2026. However, the four-time champion has ‘always’ been sceptical of the team and whether they can guarantee him success.