Max Verstappen has signed a new contract with Red Bull Racing Honda to remain with the team until the 2023 F1 season.
After the announcement from Ferrari with regards to Charles Leclerc staying on until the 2024 F1 season, all eyes were on the likes of Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton and Verstappen. And one of the puzzles has been solved with the Dutchman’s new contract.
Verstappen had a deal with Red Bull Honda until the 2020 F1 season as Christian Horner believed that it was on the team to keep the Dutchman beyond his current contract. Even before the new season kicked-off, the new deal has been reached between the two.
It will see Verstappen stay put at Red Bull Honda for until the 2023 F1 season, thereby extending his contract by three seasons. “I am really happy to have extended my partnership with the Team,” said the Dutchman.
“Red Bull believed in me and gave me the opportunity to start in F1 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.” At the same time, Horner added: “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.”
As things stand, Leclerc is with Ferrari for until 2024 while Verstappen is with Red Bull until 2023 and Sergio Perez will remain with Racing Point until 2022 F1 season. We could be in for more announcements in the coming months regarding 2021 and beyond.
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