Sky Sports F1 pundit Naomi Schiff stated that Max Verstappen is right to explore options outside Red Bull. The four-time champion remains under contract but faces speculation over his long-term future.
Schiff made the remarks during the Sky Sports F1 broadcast in Belgium. She noted an exit clause allowing Verstappen to leave if he finishes outside the top two in the drivers' standings by the summer break, which is two races away.
Verstappen, aged 28, chose to stay with Red Bull for 2026 under new regulations. Schiff said the team's inconsistent performance gives him reason to look elsewhere despite the best engine on paper.
After nine rounds, Verstappen sits seventh in the standings with 76 points, 103 behind leader Kimi Antonelli. Schiff added that limited open seats at other top teams restrict his options.
"Why wouldn't he be looking around?" Schiff said. "He wants to make the most of the time that he's here."
