Max Verstappen’s team spotted at McLaren hospitality in Belgium

Max Verstappen’s manager Raymond Vermeulen and father Jos Verstappen were spotted entering McLaren’s hospitality at Spa-Francorchamps on Thursday, July 17, 2026. The meeting included Dries Van Langendonck, a 15-year-old Belgian junior driver now part of Verstappen’s team and the McLaren Driver Development Programme.

What happened at the meeting?

The gathering at McLaren’s hospitality in Belgium came after Verstappen Racing partnered with McLaren to support Van Langendonck. The young driver will receive guidance from the four-time world champion while remaining in McLaren’s development program.

Why is this significant for Max Verstappen?

The sighting fueled speculation about Verstappen’s future in Formula 1. When asked about his plans ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Verstappen avoided giving new details, insisting there was nothing to add. His presence at McLaren’s hospitality has led to rumors about a potential move.

How did McLaren react to the rumors?

Oscar Piastri, McLaren’s current driver, dismissed the speculation. The Australian confirmed he will stay with McLaren next season and downplayed the rumors linking Verstappen to the team. Piastri said he feels comfortable with McLaren and has full support from team leaders Zak Brown and Andrea Stella.

Piastri told GPblog, *“I’ve obviously seen some of it (rumors) and heard some of it. For me, I’m very comfortable with where I am and where I sit, and, you know, Zak [Brown] and Andrea [Stella] and the whole team have been great through all that, very reassuring, and I’ve been the same to them.”*

He added, *“I’m not really that bothered. I think it’s important for people to know where things sit, where the market sits, and the information you can get is good. I trust the team here. And the things I’ve been told and the belief in me, so that’s all I really care about.”*

What comes next for Max Verstappen?

Verstappen’s future remains uncertain, but his team’s meeting with McLaren has sparked further discussion. The Belgian Grand Prix weekend could bring more clarity, though Verstappen has so far remained tight-lipped on his plans.