Sawt Falasteen - 'Simply lovely': Verstappen signs new Red Bull contract until 2030

"Four more years of full send. We are delighted to announce that Max has signed a contract extension with the team until the end of 2030," Red Bull said on X, formerly Twitter.

The news came with preparations in full swing for Verstappen's home race, the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, and will delight his thousands of orange-clad fans.

Verstappen is one of the most successful Formula One drivers of all time, dominating the sport with four consecutive world championships from 2021.

But results have been harder to come by this season, with the 28-year-old failing to see a chequered flag in the first half of the year and sitting sixth in the drivers' championship.

"This commitment is about more than continuing an already extraordinary alliance," the team said in its statement.

"It is a powerful statement of mutual trust and ambition -- and a shared decision to shape the future together."

The uncompetitive nature of the Red Bull car this year has led many to speculate that the mercurial Dutchman could switch to another team or even leave Formula One entirely.

But Verstappen said he was keen to get the team back to winning ways.

"We have the best people and I'm excited to keep working together with everyone to get back to the top again," he was quoted as saying.

The news adds even more spice to the last ever edition of the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort.

Verstappen was unbeatable on his home track, winning the first three editions since it was reintroduced to the circuit in 2021.

But he has since been chasing McLaren in his own backyard, with Papaya drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri claiming the last two races.

Verstappen is expected to don a special helmet for the occasion, inspired by the famous blue Delft pottery.

The promoters decided not to continue racing at Zandvoort, partly due to uncertainty over Verstappen's future given his importance for the popularity of the event.

"I have always said it: The team is like a second family for me and I feel very at home," said Verstappen.

"I came to the team hoping to be able to win races. What we went on to achieve together has been simply lovely," added Verstappen, using his trademark phrase.

H.Jarrar--SF-PST