Max Verstappen reveals Red Bull ‘forever’ pledge to late owner Mateschitz
Max Verstappen has revealed he told late Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz of his intention to remain with the team “forever” shortly before the Austrian’s death.
The four-time world champion has opened up on his deep sense of loyalty to the Milton Keynes-based outfit.
Despite intense speculation linking him with a move to Mercedes, the Dutchman has reaffirmed his commitment to the team where he secured his title success.
His current contract runs until the end of the 2028 season, by which time he will have spent over a decade with the constructors.
A promise to Mateschitz
The 28-year-old disclosed a sentimental pact made with Mateschitz before the businessman passed away in 2022.
Verstappen told The Times: “It’s always been the intention. I remember when Dietrich was still alive… I told him my dream – and his dream – was that I would stay here forever, as long as my career lasts.”
The former Toro Rosso graduate admitted that fulfilling that shared vision remains a primary motivation in his career.
“I’m very happy that before he passed away, I said that my intention is still to fulfil that dream, and so far that is going quite well,” he added.
Loyalty over performance
While Red Bull have faced turbulence with key personnel departing, their lead driver insists stability is crucial to his mindset.
Verstappen emphasised that feeling comfortable in his environment often outweighs the pursuit of pure performance elsewhere.
“I stayed loyal to the team for a long time; they know that loyalty, for me, is a very big thing, and that’s not always a given in Formula 1,” he explained.
“You always try to build the strongest team around you, but when you have a lot of success, it’s normal that people get poached and people leave, that’s how sport works.”
Life after Formula 1
Despite his long-term commitment, the prolific race winner has also hinted that his time in the sport may not extend far beyond his current deal.
Speaking to the Up To Speed podcast, he expressed frustration with upcoming regulations and a desire to prioritise life outside the paddock.
“I definitely see myself nearing the end,” he admitted.
“I want to live my life; you only live once, and I don’t want to spend 25 years driving a car.”
Verstappen is set to enter his 13th season in F1 in 2026, continuing a significant era of dominance with the energy drink giant.
