Verstappen to Ferrari? Binotto responds to recent rumours

Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has played down any interest in signing Max Verstappen if he is free to negotiate a departure from Red Bull this year.

Red Bull have been forced to confirm that performance-based exit clauses exist in Verstappen's deal, with Marca reporting that one could be activated if the Dutchman does not win a race before this year's summer break – just four races remain until then.

Other reports have suggested that Verstappen and Red Bull's performance in the drivers' and constructors' championship respectively could also allow him to leave.

Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc are contracted to Ferrari until 2020 and 2022 respectively, although the German's future is up in the air, amid suggestions he could consider retiring this year.

Asked if Ferrari would be interested in a move for Verstappen for 2020, Binotto told Sky Sports: "No certainly not.

"I can only confirm what Seb said; we've got two drivers who have contracts in place and we're very happy.

"Next season our line-up is fixed and there's no reason why we should change. I think things are going well in this respect."

Auto Motor und Sport reported that Red Bull chief Dr Helmut Marko fears that Mercedes could get into Verstappen's ear if he is able to discuss a departure.

Valtteri Bottas' deal expires at the end of the year, although he has won two races this year and retained the Silver Arrows faith through a winless 2018 campaign.

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