Kravitz predicts Verstappen will stay at Red Bull as McLaren options appear closed – Max Verstappen’s Formula 1 future continues to dominate discussion ahead of the summer break, but Sky Sports F1 reporter Ted Kravitz believes the four-time world champion will remain with Red Bull beyond the end of the 2026 season.
Despite ongoing speculation linking Verstappen with McLaren, Kravitz argues the reigning Constructors’ Championship contender has no reason to change its current driver line-up, leaving Red Bull as the Dutchman’s most likely destination for 2027.
McLaren viewed as Verstappen’s only realistic alternative
Speculation surrounding Verstappen’s future has intensified throughout the season, with reports continuing to link the Dutchman to several rival teams.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Kravitz suggested McLaren is currently the only realistic alternative should Verstappen decide to leave Red Bull.
“I think the only option for him at the moment is McLaren, but they are in a difficult situation and the team is very happy with both of its drivers,” Kravitz said.
He pointed to Lando Norris’ performances this season, including his pace at Spa-Francorchamps, as one of the reasons McLaren has little incentive to make changes.
“Lando Norris was, by some accounts, the fastest driver on the Spa-Francorchamps circuit.”
Oscar Piastri has also been linked with a possible departure in recent months, but Kravitz dismissed suggestions that McLaren is considering replacing either of its current drivers.
“He does have his own minor problems, but he is still very happy with the team, and there’s a harmonious atmosphere. There’s no vacancy in the McLaren team. That’s why I believe Max will stay.”
Mercedes confidence in Antonelli also limits Verstappen’s options
Kravitz also addressed speculation surrounding Mercedes, another team regularly linked with Verstappen whenever questions arise over his Red Bull future.
According to the veteran broadcaster, Mercedes remains committed to its current pairing and has enormous confidence in rookie Kimi Antonelli’s long-term potential.
“McLaren seems to be the only contender at the moment. Mercedes seems to think they’re happy with Kimi Antonelli. They believe he’s probably just as fast as Max Verstappen. A bold statement, but that’s their opinion.”
He added that Mercedes also values George Russell’s experience alongside Antonelli as the young Italian continues his development.
“And they believe George Russell is a good teammate for Antonelli for the time being.”
If Mercedes is satisfied with its current line-up and McLaren has no available seat, Kravitz believes Verstappen has little reason—or opportunity—to leave Red Bull.
Verstappen continues to avoid questions over his future
The Dutchman has consistently declined to discuss his plans whenever questioned during recent race weekends.
Ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Verstappen offered only brief responses when asked about ongoing rumours, saying he would speak publicly once there was genuine news to share.
Meanwhile, reports continue to circulate regarding a performance-related clause in his Red Bull contract, which officially runs until the end of the 2028 season.
Although details have never been confirmed by Verstappen or Red Bull, speculation has suggested the clause could allow him to leave if he failed to occupy a leading position in the Drivers’ Championship by the summer break.
That uncertainty has fuelled repeated links with McLaren in particular, although no team has publicly indicated it is pursuing a move.
Why Red Bull remains the most likely outcome
Despite months of speculation, Kravitz believes the current driver market simply does not provide Verstappen with an attractive alternative.
With McLaren committed to Norris and Piastri, and Mercedes reportedly convinced by Antonelli’s potential, Red Bull remains the obvious destination for one of Formula 1’s biggest stars.
Summing up the situation, Kravitz concluded:
“It seems to be either McLaren or nothing at all, or staying with Red Bull – which is why I think Max will stay with Red Bull.”
As Formula 1 heads into the traditional “silly season,” Verstappen’s future will continue to generate headlines. However, unless circumstances change significantly, Kravitz believes the speculation will ultimately end with the Dutchman remaining where he is.
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