Max Verstappen signs Red Bull contract extension to 2023

Red Bull Racing announced today that Max Verstappen has committed his immediate future to the team, signing a contract extension that runs until the end of the 2023 season. Since becoming the youngest winner of a Formula 1 race in his first season with the team in 2016, Verstappen has gone on to triumph in a further seven Grands Prix, while he managed a career-best placing of third in the 2019 drivers' standings.

Verstappen's three-year extension

Verstappen, whose previous deal was due to expire at the end of the 2020 season, will now remain with Red Bull for a further three campaigns as he seeks to deliver their first world title since Sebastian Vettel's fourth successive victory in 2013.

"I am really happy to have extended my partnership with the team," said the 22-year-old in a Red Bull press release. "Red Bull believed in me and gave me the opportunity to start in Formula One, which I have always been very grateful for. Over the years I have grown closer and closer with the team and besides the passion from everyone and the on-track performance it is also really enjoyable to work with such a great group of people. Honda coming onboard and the progress we have made over the last 12 months gives me even more motivation and the belief that we can win together. I respect the way Red Bull and Honda work together and from all sides everyone is doing what they can to succeed. I want to win with Red Bull and our goal is of course to fight for a world championship together."

Lewis Hamilton linked to Ferrari move

Verstappen's new deal comes a fortnight on from Charles Leclerc signing fresh terms with Ferrari until the end of 2024, meaning F1's two brightest young stars are now tied down to their respective teams. Reigning world champion Lewis Hamilton has been strongly linked with a move to Ferrari at the end of this year, ahead of sweeping changes to F1's regulations - including spending restrictions - that will come into effect from 2021.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner said: "It is fantastic news for the team to have extended our agreement with Max up to and including the 2023 season. With the challenge of the 2021 regulation changes on the horizon, continuity in as many areas as possible is key. Max has proven what an asset he is to the team, he truly believes in the partnership we have forged with our engine supplier Honda, and we are delighted to have extended our relationship with him."