The frustration is said to go beyond the current performance of the RB22. Verstappen is reportedly unhappy that his feedback is being given less weight inside the team, both on set-up direction and on key strategic calls, including decisions around power-unit components.
His contract situation only adds to the uncertainty. The four-time world champion is not prepared to guarantee that he will remain with Red Bull next season and, according to the report, has no intention of removing the early-exit clause from his deal, even in exchange for a major financial offer. Verstappen wants to keep full control over his future.
There is also concern around Gianpiero Lambiase. With Verstappen’s long-time race engineer set to leave Red Bull for McLaren in 2028, De Telegraaf claims his access to certain confidential technical information has been restricted. If true, that could directly affect Verstappen’s working environment at a time when Red Bull can least afford further instability.
For now, Verstappen’s options for next season appear limited. Even if the desire to leave grows stronger, the reality of the driver market may still leave him with only one realistic path: staying at Red Bull.
#rumors
@charlesleclerc