Red Bull has found a new driver to replace Max Verstappen, and it could shake up the world of F1!
Red Bull already have a backup plan just in case Max Verstappen decides to retire, as he’s been quite frustrated with the new rules in Formula One. Even though we’re only four races into the 2026 season, talk about Verstappen’s future is everywhere.
The four-time world champ has been open about how he feels the sport has changed, even comparing it to “Formula E on steroids” and suggesting it might make him want to retire. While retirement doesn’t seem likely anytime soon, Red Bull is preparing just in case and has their eyes on their top choice to replace him.
According to Motorsport, Oscar Piastri is Red Bull’s “Plan B.” Team boss Laurent Mekies and head of motorsport Oliver Mintzlaff see Piastri as the perfect fit if Verstappen decides to leave. With Verstappen’s future always being a hot topic, Red Bull wants to be ready to move quickly to get Piastri.
Since Piastri started challenging for the 2025 world title, many have expected him to join a top team. Rumors about Piastri leaving McLaren picked up a lot last year, especially with some tension between him and his teammate Lando Norris. Though things cooled down for a bit after the season ended, talk about Piastri possibly taking Verstappen’s seat at Red Bull is starting up again.
Still, Red Bull says Verstappen will stay with them through 2027, and they see young driver Isack Hadjar as a future prospect, not someone who will jump in right away.