Max Verstappen Snaps at Broadcaster For Question About

“You focus on commentating, I’ll focus on driving.” That was Max Verstappen’s curt reply when Sky Sports’ David Croft asked if he might leave Red Bull. The four‑time world champion insisted he is focused only on racing, yet the Dutchman leaving in 2025 remains a hot topic as the team battles its worst slump in years.

Speculation intensified after Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko confirmed Verstappen’s contract includes a performance‑based exit clause. Media reports suggest the clause could be triggered by significant personnel changes or failure to meet championship targets. Cameras caught a tense discussion involving Christian Horner and Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, at the Bahrain Grand Prix, fuelling belief that a move away may be more than idle chatter.

Verstappen downplayed the drama, insisting the conversation was a routine debrief after a frustrating weekend. “We all care about the team, we care about the people, we care about results,” he said. Despite his calm tone, questions persist, especially if Red Bull’s results do not improve.

Red Bull’s Woes in 2025 So Far

It’s been a tough start to the season for Verstappen and co.

Since legendary designer Adrian Newey left before the 2025 season, Red Bull have looked a shadow of their former selves. Newey’s move to Aston Martin stripped the team of its most visionary engineer, and the car’s performance has suffered. Red Bull now sit third in the Constructors’ Championship, 22 points behind Mercedes and 80 points adrift of leaders McLaren. This regression underlines how vital Newey’s aerodynamic expertise was to their dominant era.

Max Verstappen’s results in 2025 so far (as of 18/04/25)

Round
Race
Position
Points

1.
Australian GP
2nd
18

2.
Chinese GP
4th
12

3.
Japanese GP
1st
25

4.
Bahrain GP
6th
8

Verstappen himself has felt the drop in performance. In qualifying, he has struggled with balance and grip, while his race pace has often fallen short of expectations. Fans and pundits alike have noted that Red Bull’s pit‑stop efficiency and strategic calls lack the razor‑sharp precision of previous seasons.

Max Verstappen’s Future in F1

Mercedes will certainly be keeping their eyes on his situation

Should Verstappen ever decide to invoke his exit clause, Mercedes would be the clear front‑runner. Team principal Toto Wolff has repeatedly praised Verstappen’s ability both behind the wheel and in the factory, and Mercedes are already gearing up for the 2026 regulation reset. They need a driver who can not only deliver victories, but also offer incisive technical feedback to shape their next‑generation car.

Yet switching teams is never straightforward. A move would involve adapting to a different car philosophy, new teammates, and altered team dynamics. Verstappen’s current focus remains on extracting performance from the RB21, but the longer Red Bull fails to return to winning form, the more attractive alternative packages will appear.

For now, Verstappen insists he is “very relaxed” and committed to Red Bull through 2028. However, the combination of an exit clause, Newey’s departure, and a slide in the standings means that every podium and press conference brings fresh scrutiny. As the 2025 season unfolds, Verstappen’s future at Red Bull will remain one of Formula 1’s most compelling storylines.