Verstappen suggests he might consider GT3 if Red Bull struggles in 2026.

      Max Verstappen has indicated that he might explore other motorsport avenues if Red Bull's 2026 initiative does not meet expectations. The four-time world champion mentioned to Viaplay: "It depends on our performance next season. If we are competitive, my focus will be solely on Formula 1. However, if we are not, I might consider other opportunities on the side."

      When questioned about competing in the Dakar rally, the Dutch driver remarked at his home race in Zandvoort: "I’m not inclined to drive a vehicle through the sand. I dislike sand. However, the idea of participating in 24-hour races has always intrigued me. It's unique and quite different from Formula 1, especially since you share a car with another driver. My primary goal has always been to achieve success in Formula 1, which I have done. In the future, I may seek different experiences."

      Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko recently acknowledged: "To keep Max satisfied, discussions about simulators or GT3 are necessary!" This follows months of speculation regarding a potential Verstappen move to Mercedes for 2026 amid a leadership crisis for Christian Horner. Jos Verstappen confirmed that there were "many" conversations about this matter. "It’s not that we’ve extensively discussed it this year, but we have talked about it more than last year," said Max's father and co-manager. "There's a lot of sensationalism in the media, but discussions also include Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull, which is understandable. Ultimately, Max will make the final decision."

      Max concurred in their rare joint interview: "I have to determine what I want."

      Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has openly stated that he frequently communicates with Verstappen. "Max also has his reasons for remaining at Red Bull. He’s not going to just leave," the Austrian told De Telegraaf ahead of the Dutch GP. "It never became very serious, but let’s see where we are in two or three years. We have a good personal rapport. When you are on the same wavelength, things flow more smoothly. However, there’s a 50 percent chance we may never collaborate, and a 50 percent chance that we will."

      Verstappen expressed his appreciation for the friendly relationship he has with Wolff. "There’s no secret about my trip to Sardinia," he revealed. "I even had lunch with Toto and his family. It’s not solely about Formula 1; it’s about life. Sometimes, you connect with people and build good relationships. I think it’s wonderful that it extends beyond just competition."

      Wolff humorously noted that missing out on Verstappen for 2026 would save Mercedes a significant amount of money. "Then I only have to pay ten percent of what I might have had to," he joked. "Raymond (Vermeulen) called me a cheap Austrian, and I responded: ‘And you’re a greedy Dutchman.’"

      However, he also acknowledged the real challenge that Red Bull and their new engine partner Ford may face with the upcoming engine regulations. "This project is akin to scaling Mount Everest," Wolff remarked. "I believe it will be a monumental challenge for them."

      In the meantime, Verstappen's father Jos continues his rally racing and is even contending for the Belgian rally championship. "Then he’ll be the only Verstappen to win a championship this year," Max laughed.