Verstappen has hit out at repeated questions about his F1 race ban threat after 2025 Canadian Grand Prix qualifying.

For Red Bull Racing, their driver situation is both a strength and a looming challenge. While Dr Helmut Marko hails Max Verstappen as the “perfect driver,” that level of excellence also comes with leverage — including contractual escape clauses that could see him walk away if desired.

Max Verstappen needs to be very careful at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve to avoid receiving a penalty point. Doing so would mean that the Dutchman would not be allowed to participate in the next race.

The FIA hit the Red Bull star and four-time world champion with a 10-second penalty in the race, followed by three penalty points on his super license. That means Verstappen enters the Canadian Grand Prix with 11 points total on his super license in total. F1's rules dictate 12 penalty points in a 12-month period trigger a one-race suspension.

After the recent Spanish Grand Prix, where Verstappen was penalised for an incident with George Russell and admitted his 2025 title hopes were slim, speculation grew that he may be trying to activate a contract exit clause and move to Mercedes or Aston Martin for 2026. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko rejected those claims. “

It’s no secret that Max Verstappen wants to compete in other racing series alongside—or perhaps after—his Formula 1 career. An adventure in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) appears the most likely.

Red Bull's senior advisor has opened up about Max Verstappen's highly controversial incident with George Russell that brought him one step closer to a race ban.

Spain being proof that there will be consequences for crossing a line, particularly if it ends up leading to a race ban

Christian Horner made clear statements about Max Verstappen's future at Red Bull Racing after the first free practice session in Canada. The reigning Formula 1 world champion remains with the Austrian team.