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Verstappen's seat in demand: 'Many good drivers are calling Red Bull'
Despite a long-term contract, the seat next to the Dutch world champion remains a highly coveted target on the Formula 1 grid.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-07-25T05:10:11.000Z - 2 min read
Max Verstappen's dominance in Formula 1 has not only turned the sport itself upside down, but also the dynamics of the driver market. Despite his long-term contract with Red Bull Racing through 2028, the coveted seat alongside the Dutch world champion remains a constant subject of discussion and speculation. For many top drivers, a seat at one of the grid's most successful teams remains an ultimate goal.
Laurent Mekies, a key figure within the Red Bull organization, has now made a striking revelation about this ongoing interest. The 'Red Bull boss', as he is referred to by a source, recently confirmed that there is significant activity behind the scenes. This sheds new light on the attractiveness of a spot within the Red Bull family.
Mekies specifically stated: 'We get a lot of calls from good drivers.' This statement is more than a simple anecdote; it underlines the intense competition that prevails in Formula 1. Even with a driver of Verstappen's caliber firmly anchored, the appeal of a successful team remains enormous for talent from all over the world.
Mekies' words imply that drivers are not just looking for an open seat, but are actively exploring options around the most sought-after positions on the grid. Although Verstappen's contract duration is clear, the phone calls could also offer a glimpse into potential future scenarios or into other seats within the broader Red Bull structure that could serve as a stepping stone. This keeps the market moving.
This constant stream of interest shows that Formula 1 drivers, regardless of their current status or contract, are always alert to opportunities to advance their careers. A place at a team that consistently fights at the front, such as Red Bull, can mean the difference between taking part and winning. The pressure to perform at the highest level and have the right tools to do so is immense.
It is an open secret that team principals and management figures are in constant contact with drivers and their representatives. However, Mekies' remarks make explicit how concrete and frequent these approaches are, even for a position that is seemingly occupied for the near future. It illustrates the constant battle for talent and the strategic considerations of top teams.
The dynamics around Formula 1 seats remain one of the most fascinating aspects off the track. Mekies' words confirm that, regardless of the dominance of a driver or team, the underlying competition for the best seats continues unabated. It is a clear sign of the ruthless nature of the sport.