Verstappen: I have no plans to leave Red Bull

Before the start of the weekend in Suzuka, Max Verstappen denied rumors about a departure from Red Bull…

Q: This year Honda is celebrating 60 years of racing in Formula 1. What do you think are the best moments of interacting with them?
Max Verstappen: The most important thing is winning races and championships, but I enjoy the day-to-day work with them. We have achieved a lot and will achieve even more. I like to visit Japan, it is always great here, we receive a very warm welcome.

Question: For the second time in a row you are coming to Japan after a difficult weekend. Singapore last year, Melbourne last week. How confident are you going into this weekend?
Max VerstappenAnswer: Every season is different. Yes, last year we had a difficult weekend in Singapore, but we were fast in Melbourne, where I couldn’t finish due to bad luck. Normally our car likes fast corners, I hope we can demonstrate this again this weekend.

Q: How do you rate Adrian Newey’s work on this year’s car?
Max Verstappen: Of course it is a huge incentive for everyone to have someone like Adrian in the team. But a big team, the whole team, worked on the car. Every employee’s ideas were taken into account and as a result we got the car we have today.

Frankly, I prefer the cars of yesteryear, a little lighter, a little more agile. But everyone must comply with the current regulations, and that is true.

Q: Max, last year you regretted parting ways with Honda in 2026. How are they different from previous engine suppliers you’ve used?
Max Verstappen: To be honest, our relationship has always been very good. Some moments I will never forget. The first stage when I saw the happiness on the faces of all our employees. First win. I really like these people and their approach to business. It was a lot of fun working with them. Of course our relationship will end at some point, but I will always be a big fan of Honda. Each manufacturer is good in its own way, but most of my memories are related to Honda.

Question: Ten years ago, Jules Bianchi was involved in a tragic accident in Suzuka. What do you remember from that day, what legacy did Jules leave behind in Formula 1?
Max Verstappen: Days like these are always very difficult to remember. Personally, I didn’t know Jules very well, but we have mutual friends who knew him. He was incredibly talented and would have achieved great success in Formula 1. Everyone was sure of it.

It was a very bad day for everyone, for the sport. But we learned a lot about safety and drew conclusions. Unfortunately, that’s life. He will always be remembered. There are things named after him, charities, kart races that his father still organizes. Jules certainly deserves it.

Question: Suzuka is often called a track for racers. Tell us why you like performing here. Which areas do you like most?
Max Verstappen: Yes, this is one of my favorite songs. It might scare you if this is your first time here. This happened to me too. If the car is well set up it is fun to race here, but if it is not well balanced in the first sector it becomes very difficult to drive.

If the car is stable, you can really attack in the first sector, where you can make up a lot of time. I think this part of the route is the best. But if you make a small mistake, especially in the rain, you could end up in the grass or gravel. This adds interest and complexity compared to other circuits, where you can go wide onto the tarmac and return to the track. In Suzuka you need constant concentration, if you overdo it with an attack you will end up in the wall. This is a special stage for me.

Question: Fernando Alonso thinks the chance of you leaving Red Bull next year is zero. Is this true, and if not, what factors will determine your future in 2025?
Max Verstappen: It all depends on whether I want to ride next year. I have no plans to leave Red Bull. There are no problems from my side, I am happy to play in this team. And yes, we would like to keep it that way.