On Thursday morning, Max Verstappen and Red Bull announced a contract extension through the 2030 Formula 1 season. The deal put an end to months of speculation regarding a potential exit or early retirement for the Dutchman, generating positive reactions across the Zandvoort paddock, including from Lewis Hamilton.
Speaking to media in attendance—including GRANDE PRÊMIO—ahead of the Dutch GP, the Ferrari driver was asked about Verstappen’s renewal. Asked whether the deal was good news for Formula 1, Hamilton was brief:
“Sure. Why wouldn’t it be?” Hamilton replied, before expanding on Verstappen’s choice when asked about the significance of winning titles with more than one team—something the Dutchman has not done.
“I don’t necessarily have an opinion on that. I don’t know if it makes that big of a difference. I think he’s been at a great team for a long time, and Red Bull keeps evolving more and more. It’s a really incredible place to be and work, clearly,” Hamilton stated.
“When you look at the history of drivers moving teams, there are some who moved many times. Sometimes that’s good, sometimes it’s bad. But yeah, obviously the easiest thing is always to stay where you feel comfortable. That’s his choice, and it’s not a bad choice,” he added.
Red Bull had faced a period of uncertainty regarding Verstappen’s commitment beyond 2026. Although their previous deal ran through 2028, performance clauses provided pathways for the four-time world champion to leave amid concerns surrounding the 2026 power unit regulations.
Faced with potential departure scenarios, senior Red Bull management met with Verstappen during the Austrian Grand Prix weekend to negotiate terms. Nearly two months later, the extension was officially confirmed.
Formula 1 returns this weekend, from August 21 to 23, for the Dutch Grand Prix — the 12th round of the 2026 season. GRANDE PRÊMIO covers all the track action live from Zandvoort with reporter Leonid Kliuev. Follow all the paddock coverage on our news page.
Session schedule: Dutch Grand Prix 2026
| Session | Local time (CEST) | UTC |
| Free Practice 1 | Friday, August 21 – 12:30 | 10:30 |
| Free Practice 2 | Friday, August 21 – 16:00 | 14:00 |
| Free Practice 3 | Saturday, August 22 – 11:30 | 09:30 |
| Qualifying | Saturday, August 22 – 15:00 | 13:00 |
| Race | Sunday, August 23 – 15:00 | 13:00 |
Broadcast guide: Where to watch in the United States
- United States (Eastern Time / ET)
- Broadcaster: Apple TV
- Free Practice 1: Friday, August 21 – 06:30 ET
- Free Practice 2: Friday, August 21 – 10:00 ET
- Free Practice 3: Saturday, August 22 – 05:30 ET
- Qualifying: Saturday, August 22 – 09:00 ET
- Race: Sunday, August 23 – 09:00 ET
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. How long is Max Verstappen’s new contract with Red Bull?
Max Verstappen signed a contract extension keeping him with Red Bull Racing through the end of the 2030 season.
2. What did Lewis Hamilton say about drivers changing teams to win titles?
Hamilton noted that changing teams isn’t strictly necessary to prove success, stating that remaining in a comfortable, competitive environment like Red Bull is a very strong decision.
3. Where can viewers in the United States stream the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix?
All sessions of the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix are available to stream live in the United States exclusively on Apple TV.
