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Red Bull explores buyout of Verstappen's exit clause amid contract uncertainty

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 10:10 AM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Red Bull explores buyout of Verstappen's exit clause amid contract uncertainty

Summary

Max Verstappen's future with Red Bull is complicated as he holds an exit clause in his contract through 2028. His manager confirmed that this clause becomes active if Verstappen is not in the top two standings when the season pauses for summer. Currently, he is seventh in the championship with only four rounds to go. Reports indicate that Red Bull is considering a significant payout to have him waive this clause. Meanwhile, discussions about Oscar Piastri potentially replacing Verstappen are underway, amid concerns about trust between the driver and team regarding car performance.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

What We Know

•Verstappen's exit clause activates if he falls outside top two before summer break.
•Red Bull is reportedly willing to pay millions to buy out the exit clause.
•Verstappen is currently seventh, 60 points off second place in standings.
•Oscar Piastri is being considered as a replacement if Verstappen leaves.
•Red Bull's management is reportedly uncertain about maintaining Verstappen's commitment.

Latest Updates

10:10 AMYahoo Sports — Red Bull Is Reportedly Trying to Buy Out Verstappen’s Exit Clause For Millions

What they're saying

"
The situation around Max Verstappen‘s Red Bull future is now officially confirmed to be complicated. His manager Raymond Vermeulen has spoken publicly for the first time about the four-time champion’s position, confirming that Verstappen holds an exit clause in a…
— Yahoo Sports

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