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Red Bull have issued a “real statement of intent” by securing Max Verstappen on a new long-term contract, according to Christian Horner, as the team prepare for another title battle with Lewis Hamilton.

The Dutchman, who clinched his maiden world championship title after taking the checkered flag in a controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, has been rewarded for his sensational driving last season.

The 24-year-old already had a deal in place that was due to run until the end of next season, but the Austria-based constructor have moved to tie down Verstappen until 2028 with a bumper pay rise included.

The new package is thought to be worth an eye-watering £40m-a-year — matching Hamilton's deal to make Verstappen one of the highest-paid drivers in the sport’s history.

Horner, who notably described Verstappen as the “best driver on the grid”, was delighted to have locked down the driver he has nurtured from a young age and says it sends a strong message to their rivals.

”To have Max signed through to the end of 2028 is a real statement of intent,” CEO and team principal Christian Horner said.

“Our immediate focus is on retaining Max’s World Championship title, but this deal also shows he is a part of the