Max Verstappen Decommits from Red Bull and Joins NASCAR in Blockbuster Deal
In an unprecedented move that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, reigning Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen has announced that he will be leaving Red Bull Racing and committing to a deal with NASCAR, one of the most iconic American motorsport series. The deal, reportedly worth upwards of $100 million, is a game-changer for both Verstappen and NASCAR.
Verstappen, who has been with Red Bull since 2016 and secured back-to-back F1 titles in 2021 and 2022, stunned fans and industry insiders alike with his sudden shift. His departure from the highly successful F1 team, where he had forged a dominant partnership with the team and engine supplier Honda, comes as a huge surprise to the motorsport community.
“I’ve achieved everything I wanted to in Formula 1, and now it’s time for a new challenge,” Verstappen said in a press release. “NASCAR has a rich history, and I’m excited to see how my skills translate to stock car racing. I’ve always admired the determination and resilience of the NASCAR drivers, and I’m looking forward to racing in this new environment.”
Verstappen’s deal with NASCAR includes a multi-year contract, with the 26-year-old set to debut in the 2025 season. His transition to stock cars will be supported by a special partnership with one of NASCAR’s top teams, who are expected to provide him with state-of-the-art equipment and extensive training in the coming months.
The move is a massive coup for NASCAR, which has seen growing interest from international drivers in recent years. Verstappen’s arrival will not only attract new fans to the sport but also solidify its place as a global motorsport powerhouse.
