F1 world champion to stay at Red Bull for another season
Despite a £50m-a-year deal until 2028, Verstappen had been strongly linked with Mercedes, partly due to an exit clause if he fell below third in the drivers' standings.
His decision follows the dismissal of Christian Horner as team principal and with Verstappen now guaranteed to be at least third in the championship.
Verstappen stated he is already discussing 2026 plans with Red Bull and criticised those who 'stir the pot' with rumours.
Consequently, George Russell is now expected to stay at Mercedes alongside rookie Kimi Antonelli, with their contract lengths yet to be finalised.
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