Max Verstappen’s future in flux as McLaren denies Piastri exit talks

Max Verstappen’s future remains uncertain after Red Bull’s struggles left the four-time world champion seventh in the championship with just two podiums this season.

What happened?

On Thursday at the Belgian Grand Prix in Spa-Francorchamps, Verstappen refused to confirm his plans for 2027 despite contract talks swirling around McLaren. Earlier reports claimed Verstappen’s camp had approached McLaren about a potential seat, but Zak Brown, McLaren Racing’s CEO, shut down the speculation at Silverstone last month. Brown said the talks “didn’t go anywhere” because Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are locked in long-term deals.

Piastri, however, dismissed the noise around his own future. When asked point-blank if he’d still be racing for McLaren next year, he replied with a single word: “Yes.” The Australian signed a fresh long-term deal with McLaren in January 2025 and finished third in last year’s championship, 10 points behind Norris.

Why it matters for Max Verstappen

Verstappen’s struggles this season have fueled speculation about a potential exit from Red Bull. The team’s poor form-seventh in the standings with only two podiums-raises questions over his commitment to the outfit. His contract runs through 2028, but he retains an exit clause that could allow him to leave if he chooses.

At Thursday’s FIA press conference, Verstappen again deflected questions about his future. When pressed on whether he’d race for Red Bull next year, he said: “I don’t want to go here and say yes or no, and this and that, about my future.” He added that he’d provide an update when he’s ready, a stance he’s maintained all season.

The Dutchman’s silence contrasts with his usual approach. Last year, he ended months of rumors by confirming his Red Bull future at the Hungarian Grand Prix in July 2025. This time, no such clarity has emerged.

What comes next?

Verstappen’s next move hinges on Red Bull’s performance and his own contract leverage. If the team fails to rebound, the exit clause could become a real option. But for now, he’s staying quiet.

Piastri, meanwhile, is focused on the Belgian Grand Prix and his own title ambitions. He believes McLaren can still deliver a championship with him behind the wheel. Brown has backed that claim, calling Piastri the team’s long-term future.

Verstappen’s next public statement could come at the end of July, when the summer break traditionally brings contract updates. Until then, the speculation will only grow.