David Coulthard is confident Max Verstappen will remain with Red Bull due to the team's unique support. He argues that no other team would allow Verstappen the same freedom to 'be Max.'
David Coulthard, the former F1 driver, has made it clear why he believes Max Verstappen will stick with Red Bull for the foreseeable future. Despite the Dutchman's contract running until the end of 2028, rumors have occasionally suggested a possible switch to Mercedes. However, Coulthard, who drove for Red Bull from 2005 to 2008, is confident that the team's culture uniquely suits Verstappen.
Coulthard shared his views on the _Up To Speed_ podcast, stating, "Max will not be going anywhere because there's no other Formula 1 team that would allow him to be Max." He elaborated that while teams like McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes have their merits, none would afford Verstappen the same liberty Red Bull does. This approach, Coulthard claims, is rooted in the philosophy of Red Bull's founder, Dietrich Mateschitz, who encouraged drivers to be themselves.
Verstappen recently showcased his versatility by competing in the Nurburgring 24 Hours, though a driveshaft issue dashed his hopes of victory. Coulthard praised Verstappen's adaptability across different racing formats, likening his talent to being ambidextrous. "He just seems to be good at everything he does that involves four wheels," Coulthard remarked.
The former driver also expressed admiration for Verstappen's courage at the Nurburgring, a track Coulthard described as "scary." He noted that racing there requires a level of commitment beyond what is typical, suggesting that not many current F1 drivers would take on such a challenge.
In conclusion, Coulthard firmly believes that Verstappen's relationship with Red Bull is a perfect match, saying, "Right now, Max is staying with Red Bull for the rest of his career."