A possible departure of Max Verstappen from Red Bull will, according to Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane, have no direct consequences for the sister team. While the future of the Dutchman remains a topic of discussion, the Brit emphasizes that the decision about Red Bull’s lineup is beyond his influence. If Verstappen leaves, Permane could indirectly face the consequences, as one of his drivers might get promoted.
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Rumors about Verstappen leaving Red Bull have been circulating for months. The Dutchman could use an exit clause in his contract during the summer break, which actually runs until the end of 2028. McLaren is mentioned as a possible destination, although both McLaren CEO Zak Brown and Verstappen’s manager Raymond Vermeulen have publicly denied that talks are taking place.
Since Racing Bulls traditionally functions as a development and feeder team for Red Bull, Permane was recently asked whether Verstappen’s departure would affect the lineup in Faenza. However, the Brit did not want to get ahead of himself. “For my team, it will have no impact, because he does not drive for me,” Permane responded to the media in the paddock. “So I think that is really a question for Laurent (Mekies, ed.).”
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Alan Permane has no influence on Red Bull
Permane emphasized that the final decision about Red Bull’s lineup lies entirely with team principal Mekies. “Max (Verstappen, ed.) does not drive for me, and it is up to Laurent to decide who his drivers will be for next season,” added the 59-year-old. The Racing Bulls team principal also made clear that, in his opinion, it is still too early to draw conclusions about the consequences of a possible transfer of Verstappen. According to Permane, there are simply too many unknown factors to speculate about the driver lineup for 2027.
It is obvious that if Verstappen does leave, one of the Racing Bulls drivers will be promoted to Red Bull, unless the team decides to recruit a driver from outside its own program. With the exception of Sergio Pérez, the lineup in Milton Keynes has consistently consisted of drivers from their own development program over the past ten years. Based on current results, however, it is difficult to predict who is eligible for promotion. Liam Lawson already got a chance at Red Bull last year but was demoted back to Racing Bulls after two disappointing races.
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