F1 journalist drops major bombshell on Max Verstappen's future as 2026 decision '100% decided'

A Formula 1 journalist has given a huge update on Max Verstappen's future amid rumours he could leave Red Bull Racing ahead of 2026.

After winning four world titles in a row, it looked like Verstappen's dominance would come to a close in 2025.

McLaren have been the standouts so far this season, with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris currently the top two in the standings.

However, Verstappen reminded everyone that he is still in the title race after a dominant win at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola over the weekend. The win was the Dutchman's second of the season after he came out on top at the Japanese Grand Prix.

As a result, the Red Bull star closed the gap to second-placed Norris to just nine points.

Away from the track, the future of Verstappen has been a major talking point, mainly due to Red Bull's recent struggles.

The likes of Mercedes and Aston Martin have both been linked with making a move for the 27-year-old.

Now, it has been claimed that Verstappen has made his decision ahead of next year.

Max Verstappen 'makes decision' on Red Bull future

As reported by sport.de's Felix Gorner, Verstappen has ‘100% decided' that he will be racing for Red Bull in 2026.

The report stated: "Max Verstappen will drive 100 per cent at Red Bull Racing next year.

"Because with this race (Imola Grand Prix), which was very important for Red Bull, he will fight against the two McLaren drivers for the world championship, and has good chances."

Max Verstappen returned to winning ways in Imola. Image: Getty

Speaking about Verstappen's victory in Imola, 1997 F1 world champion Jacques Villeneuve spoke about the advantage Red Bull could have over McLaren.

He said: "They (McLaren) show weakness. Basically, they don't show the strength that Red Bull are always showing year after year.

"It's as if they're afraid to be aggressive in trying to win the Drivers' Championship, and they're afraid to go against Piastri. It's really, really odd."

Villeneuve added: "Because Verstappen is in for the championship. You don't want to give Verstappen wins. That's more points for him in the Drivers' Championship."

F1 will continue this weekend with the iconic Monaco Grand Prix.