Verstappen 'in the right place' at Red Bull, advised against exit

Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has dismissed talk of Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull, insisting the Dutchman is right where he belongs. Despite losing several key architects of its success, Red Bull remains a force at the front, and Montoya believes Verstappen's public frustration is mainly a tactic to spur the team on. Meanwhile, two-time world champion Mika Hakkinen has warned McLaren against disrupting its winning chemistry by chasing the Dutchman.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's future has fueled endless paddock speculation since Red Bull began shedding influential staff. As the 2026 season heats up, his decision could reshape the driver market and championship fight. Hakkinen's comments highlight a crucial reality: McLaren's current harmony between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri may be more valuable than any individual upgrade.

The details:

• Montoya told F1 that Verstappen has no real intention of leaving, calling Red Bull "probably the best team in the last 20 years" alongside Mercedes.
• He pointed to Red Bull's late 2025 title charge as proof the operation remains competitive despite its personnel losses.
• Montoya characterized Verstappen's rhetoric as strategic pressure: "He wants to see that from the team, and it's just about putting pressure on them."
• On the Up to Speed podcast, Hakkinen said McLaren has built its success on collective strength and should avoid "rocking the boat" by replacing Piastri.
• The two-time champion referenced his own McLaren tenure as evidence that stable, harmonious teammate relationships outperform volatile superstar moves.

What's next:

Red Bull must deliver a consistent title challenge through the remainder of 2026 to fully silence exit talk. For McLaren, Hakkinen's message is clear: with two competitive drivers and a strong team dynamic, there is little to gain from gambling on a blockbuster signing that could fracture the garage.