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Max Verstappen is looking to stay put with Red Bull, but his decision is no longer driven by just their performance in Formula 1.
Ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, Verstappen hinted at continuing in Formula 1 after seeing positive changes in the direction he had hoped.
In particular, it was the decision to go from a 50/50 to a 60/40 split in energy supply starting from next year that would de-emphasise the reliance on electrical power that convinced Verstappen to stay.
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Even with Verstappen staying in Formula 1, there were concerns about his future with Red Bull. But it appears the Dutch driver has no plans to leave the team.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with De Telegraaf, Verstappen emphasised his desire to stay with Red Bull, but did suggest that he would be discussing more than just their Formula 1 venture with them.
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Max Verstappen reveals Red Bull contract discussions include ‘other projects’ beyond F1
Speaking to De Telegraaf, Max Verstappen confirmed that he hopes to be a Red Bull driver for the rest of his career, and even beyond.
However, while there is no rush to extend his contract with the team, Verstappen did confirm that his negotiations wouldn’t centre just on their Formula 1 project, but other motorsport ventures.
“I’m in no rush, you know. Ideally, I’d like to stay with Red Bull for the rest of my life; I’ve always said that. But making that decision doesn’t have to happen today or tomorrow.
“Whether it’s here or somewhere else, there’s much more involved than just the Formula 1 contract. I’m talking about all the other projects as well. I’m in talks with Red Bull about those, too.
“I’m very relaxed about it myself. We shouldn’t make it too dramatic. Even if it all comes to nothing, that’s fine with me. That’s my attitude towards life.”
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Max Verstappen ‘dreads’ Formula 1 involvement compared to GT racing
Later in the interview, Max Verstappen was asked about his involvement at the 24 Hours of Nurburgring, and how that experience compared to his stint in Formula 1.
“Here in Formula 1, it’s also about everything I have to do around it. At those GT races, all those obligations aren’t involved, and I’m much more shielded. Here, I sometimes dread it a bit, but I also know it’s part of the deal.
“But at some point, I do try to make the best of it. Also keeping in mind that it will be better next year. Because of that, I can come to terms with it a bit more now.”
Verstappen has to shoulder a lot more responsibility as an F1 driver. And sometimes, that can lead to him reacting poorly when things aren’t going well.
During the Canadian Grand Prix, Verstappen was furious with Red Bull over how his car was performing during free practice and qualifying.
On the other hand, his stint at Nurburgring was a lot less regulated, with Verstappen even being accused of maniacal driving by his rivals.
Hopefully, the overwhelming nature of Formula 1 will not prove to be too much for Verstappen, as the sport is undoubtedly better when he is involved.
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