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Verstappen Stays with Toro Rosso for Post-Austria F1 Test

Max Verstappen will not drive for Red Bull Racing in the upcoming Formula One test at the Red Bull Ring, remaining with Toro Rosso as speculation about promotion is dismissed.

By Steve James Updated
Max Verstappen driving the Toro Rosso STR10 in 2015.
Max Verstappen driving the Toro Rosso STR10 in 2015. Alberto-g-rovi / CC BY-SA 4.0

Max Verstappen has confirmed he will not drive for Red Bull Racing at the post-Austrian Grand Prix Formula One test, quashing speculation about an early move from Toro Rosso to the senior team.

The 17-year-old Dutchman, already the youngest driver and points scorer in F1 history, had been linked in the paddock to a possible appearance for Red Bull Racing during the two-day test at the Red Bull Ring. Verstappen told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf he will remain with Toro Rosso for the session, calling it the logical choice given he will continue racing for the junior team for the rest of the season.

No Red Bull Promotion Yet for Verstappen

Verstappen's rapid rise through the ranks and strong rookie performances have fuelled ongoing rumours about a mid-season promotion to Red Bull Racing, especially as the senior team has faced its own challenges in 2015. Verstappen’s decision to stay with Toro Rosso for the test suggests Red Bull is not planning an immediate change to its line-up.

The move keeps Verstappen focused on developing the STR10 chassis he will race for the remainder of the year. For more on Verstappen’s future options and Red Bull’s driver strategy, seeVerstappen Could Leave Red Bull for 2017 Without Promotion, Report Claims.

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