Why it matters:
A majority of Formula 1 fans believe Max Verstappen will leave Red Bull before breaking Lewis Hamilton's record for most races with a single team.
The big picture:
Lewis Hamilton currently holds the record for most races with one team, having competed in 246 grands prix for Mercedes. Verstappen has completed 200 races for Red Bull and would comfortably surpass this number if he remains with the team until his contract's expiry at the end of 2028.
The details:
- Despite confirming his stay for 2026, speculation has intensely surrounded Verstappen's future beyond that.
- To break Hamilton's record, Verstappen must compete with Red Bull through the 2027 F1 season.
- Many predict his departure if Red Bull struggles after becoming its own powertrain supplier from next year, especially as other major teams may have available seats.
- A RacingNews365 poll revealed that 66.4% of respondents expect Verstappen to leave Red Bull and not break Hamilton's record, while only 20% believe he will.
What's next:
Verstappen's decisions in the coming seasons will be pivotal in shaping his career trajectory and team affiliations.