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Hamilton gives verdict on Verstappen's long-term Red Bull future
Lewis Hamilton has shared his perspective on Max Verstappen committing to a long-term contract extension with Red Bull through 2030.
By Lesley Bakker - 2026-08-21T12:49:27.000Z - 2 min read
Formula 1 veteran Lewis Hamilton has weighed in on the major contract news surrounding his long-time rival Max Verstappen, who has committed his future to Red Bull until the end of the decade. The agreement locks the reigning world champion into the Milton Keynes squad for the long term, halting ongoing speculation regarding potential moves elsewhere on the grid.
The pair have shared a famously intense dynamic since their ferocious championship showdown in 2021, a battle defined by dramatic flashpoints and disputed moments that set the tone for their subsequent encounters. That competitive friction has frequently reignited whenever the two drivers find themselves fighting wheel-to-wheel on the track.
When reporters asked for his initial reaction to the extension, Hamilton kept his cards close to his chest. He admitted he had not spent any time pondering the development, responding that he had not really thought about it.
Asked whether keeping a top-tier driver secured at one team for so long is beneficial for the championship as a whole, Hamilton offered a relaxed assessment. He questioned why it would not be a positive outcome for the sport.
Discussion then turned to the traditional notion that a driver must achieve success across multiple outfits to cement legendary status. Hamilton dismissed the idea that switching teams is a mandatory requirement for greatness.
Pointing to Verstappen's current surroundings, Hamilton noted that the Dutchman is situated within an exceptional environment. He observed that Red Bull has sustained an impressive trajectory of development and performance over many years, creating an appealing workplace.
Hamilton also pointed out that frequent team changes yield mixed results across motorsport history, making loyalty a valid path. He concluded that staying where a driver feels comfortable represents a perfectly sensible choice for his rival.
Aside from addressing paddock politics, Hamilton shifted his focus to the immediate sporting challenge ahead at Zandvoort. The circuit remains one of the rare venues on the current calendar where the multi-time champion has yet to claim a Grand Prix victory.
With the Dutch venue set to drop off the F1 schedule after 2027, Hamilton expressed strong motivation to add the track to his winning resume before time runs out. He praised the electric atmosphere generated by the passionate local fans, acknowledging the special support Verstappen enjoys at his home race while setting his sights on finally conquering the seaside circuit.