Exclusive: Verstappen’s manager sends Red Bull subtle hints over F1 future

Max Verstappen’s manager Raymond Vermeulen has warned Red Bull it must deliver the new four-time world champion a “competitive package” after its 2024 slump.

Despite an alarming drop in the competitiveness of the RB20 mid-season, Verstappen was able to keep hauling results and keep nearest rival Lando Norris at arms length in the title race – eventually securing his fourth crown with a fifth-place finish at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. 

Although Verstappen does have a contract until 2028, the Dutchman has been linked with a move away, including to Mercedes and even Aston Martin – with the latter having poached Adrian Newey ahead of the new regulations coming into force for 2026.

Reflecting on the situation, Vermeulen, speaking exclusively to RacingNews365, hinted that the onus was on Red Bull to deliver a competitive car in the final year of the current regulations in 2025.

“If he has the material, he will execute his job, but in the end, a lot can happen,” he explained. 

“You can have a safety car, you can have a crash, you can be unlucky like in Miami with a safety car, so it is good that it is done and dusted.

“Max is in the peak of his career, so if he has the material, he will deliver, but of course, [2025], will be more competitive, all the teams will be there. 

“The car is at the end of its evolution since it is the last year for the regulations, so everyone will give it a go, even us as well.

“We will see where the performance is, Max wants to have to best performance package for the moment. 

“We have four championships here, we are loyal to Red Bull, but of course, we want to keep going and we need a competitive package.”