Karun Chandhok Astonished by Length of Max Verstappen’s Red Bull Contract Extension

Max Verstappen’s decision to extend his Red Bull contract through 2030 reflects his confidence in the team’s in‑house power‑unit programme, according to former Formula 1 driver and Sky Sports analyst Karun Chandhok.

Currently sixth in the drivers’ standings, Verstappen has nevertheless reaffirmed his commitment to Red Bull despite a noticeable dip in the team’s dominance and speculation about possible moves to Mercedes or McLaren.

While Chandhok was not taken aback by the announcement, he expressed surprise at the contract’s length.

“I am somewhat surprised by the duration of the deal,” Chandhok told Sky Sports. “I had expected an agreement through 2028, but a four‑year commitment underscores his belief in the project’s long‑term viability.”

“This season the team has been among the fourth‑fastest on many occasions, and Verstappen sits sixth in the championship—far from his usual position. Yet the squad has convinced him that their long‑term prospects outweigh current performance,” he said.

“His recent back‑to‑back podium finishes demonstrate that the team has built momentum, precisely the improvement Verstappen has been demanding, which solidifies his desire to remain with Red Bull,” Chandhok added.

“Developing their own engine is a remarkable achievement for Red Bull, considering their origins,” he remarked.

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Photo by: Steven Tee / LAT Images via Getty Images

“He sought improvements in the power‑unit domain and saw the team’s trajectory from the season’s start to now as evidence of the progress he wishes to see,” Chandhok explained.

Verstappen’s renewal was announced just after Williams secured contract extensions for Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, leaving more than half of the current F1 grid committed to the 2027 season.

“F1 thrives on compelling storylines, and there was a chance the ‘silly season’ would have been driven by Verstappen’s moves, but the situation has settled differently,” Chandhok noted.

“Discussion of a potential move to McLaren, the possible ousting of Piastri, and rumored Mercedes vacancies involving Russell or Antonelli would have sparked a massive narrative, yet the anticipated upheaval has not materialised, leaving teams back at square one,” he concluded.

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