# What Verstappen knew about Red Bull’s big upgrade when he signed his new F1 deal

> Verstappen signed Red Bull deal before knowing Baku upgrade would boost competitiveness.
- Title: What Verstappen knew about Red Bull’s big upgrade when he…
- Summary: Verstappen signed Red Bull deal before knowing Baku upgrade would boost competitiveness. Verstappen signed Red Bull contract extension without knowing Baku…
- Keywords: max verstappen, red bull racing, laurent mekies, baku upgrade, contract extension, formula 1, monza, malaysia, singapore, sports, cars, Verstappen
- Source: Autosport — https://autosport.com/f1/news/did-max-verstappen-already-know-the-impact-of-red-bulls-big-upgrade-when-he-signed-his-new-deal/10865791
- Author: Ronald Vording
- Published: 2026-10-17T08:17:38+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: max verstappen, red bull racing, laurent mekies, f1, baku upgrade, contract extension, formula 1, monza, malaysia, singapore, sports, cars
## Verstappen's F1 deal
Verstappen signed Red Bull contract extension two years after initial deal.
## Red Bull's performance shift
Red Bull moved from fourth to fighting for wins after Baku upgrade.
## Verstappen's early season struggles
Verstappen faced uncertainty with Red Bull's car performance in early races.
## Verstappen's contract extension
Verstappen's deal with Red Bull extended by two years ahead of 2027 season.
## Verstappen on car predictability
Verstappen said RB22 car became more predictable after Baku upgrade.
## Mekies on team progress
Mekies confirmed Red Bull's Baku upgrade was not the reason for Verstappen's contract.
## Long-term Red Bull strategy
Red Bull plans further upgrades for 2027 car to stay competitive.
## Verstappen's future focus
Verstappen emphasized need for 2027 car changes to compete consistently.
## Key takeaway

Verstappen signed Red Bull contract extension without knowing Baku upgrade would make team competitive.