Bernie Ecclestone predicts where Max Verstappen should drive for 2026.

Max Verstappen faces questions over the future of his F1 career after a difficult 2025 season with Red Bull.

The Dutchman’s contract runs until the 2028 season, but certain performance clauses effectively enable Verstappen to leave the team if they do not provide him with a car that is capable of finishing in the top three of the championship.

Paddock rumours emerged over the Austrian GP weekend, which alluded to talks going on between Verstappen’s camp and Mercedes, over a potential drive for the 2026 season.

Toto Wolff has previously stated that he would like Verstappen in his team, although it would involve them dropping George Russell.

With Verstappen’s future currently uncertain, Bernie Ecclestone was asked where he thinks the Dutchman should go when speaking on Sky Sports.

F1 Grand Prix of Austria - Final Practice
Photo by Joe Portlock/Getty Images

Bernie Ecclestone thinks Max Verstappen should stay with Red Bull

Verstappen has spent the entirety of his F1 career at Red Bull after the team gave him a fast-track seat to Toro Rosso in 2014.

But after four titles, he could be tempted to go elsewhere to fulfil his ambitions of winning more championships but Ecclestone, who is in the Austrian GP paddock this weekend, thinks it would be wise to stay put.

“I think he should be where he’s happy. Wherever it’s going to be, as long as he’s happy and still able to perform the way he’s performing now, because he’s not a guy that messes around,” said Ecclestone.

“Very straightforward about what he says and does. I’d like to see him stay where he is.”

Max Verstappen’s management has scathing review on Red Bull’s 2026 plans

The Dutchman shut down any questions over his future with Red Bull in the Austrian GP Drivers’ press conference.

Verstappen is convinced Red Bull is heading in the right direction, but behind the scenes, his management is less convinced.

They believe a 2026 campaign with Red Bull could be ‘painful’ for Verstappen, as they will not meet the performance of rivals Mercedes or Ferrari.

Despite ruling out a move to Aston Martin, Verstappen could be tempted to reunite with Adrian Newey if they chose to shake up their driver lineup.