Motorsport.com reports that Red Bull is considering offering Max Verstappen a stake in the team's capital to secure their relationship. The four-time world champion Dutch driver has a contract until 2028, but includes an exit clause allowing him to leave the team if he fails to finish in the top two of the championship by the summer break; this scenario is said to be becoming increasingly likely.
An unprecedented offer is on the table.
According to information circulating in the paddock, Red Bull is discussing including an equity stake in the team in the new contract they will offer Verstappen. Such a structure could provide the driver not only with financial benefits but also potentially a broader role in decision-making processes. If this scenario materializes, Verstappen would become the only driver in modern Formula 1 to hold shares in a team.
It is noted that similar models are not entirely new in the Red Bull universe: former team principal Christian Horner reportedly tried to gain a stake in the team for a long time before being dismissed, but was unsuccessful. On the other hand, Aston Martin successfully applied a similar formula involving an expanded management role and equity partnership to bring Adrian Newey into their ranks in the past. It is also mentioned that a stake in Racing Bulls was considered for Verstappen, but this option was abandoned due to the risk of a conflict of interest, and the option of direct participation in the main structure came to the forefront.
Verstappen's bargaining power and competing options
According to Motorsport.com, Verstappen's reluctance to make a public commitment for 2027 and beyond is seen as a conscious strategy to secure more advantageous conditions. It is emphasized that Verstappen, one of the world's highest-paid athletes, wants to further increase his influence within Red Bull.
It is also noteworthy that alternative doors in the market have largely closed: Mercedes has completed its lineup with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, and the McLaren option, despite some talks with Zak Brown, is reportedly closed in the short term. This situation weakens Red Bull's hand and largely ties Verstappen to Milton Keynes; the driver has repeatedly stated his desire to finish his career at Red Bull, provided he has a competitive car. A capital partnership could put this long-term commitment on a more solid footing.
Neither Red Bull nor Verstappen has yet commented on the matter; the information currently reflects unconfirmed rumors.