Red Bull has secured Max Verstappen’s signature following Daniil Kvyat’s performance in the Russian Grand Prix, where he ran in to the back of Sebastian Vettel’s Ferrari on two occasions, taking the four-time world champion out of the race.
The incident also compromised team-mate Daniel Ricciardo’s race, leaving Red Bull without points from the fourth round of the season.
With Verstappen a target for Ferrari in the future and Red Bull keen to safeguard the young Dutch driver, it has decided to promote Verstappen immediately, with Kvyat set to race for Toro Rosso in next weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix.
“Max has proven to be an outstanding young talent,” team principal Christian Horner said. “His performance at Toro Rosso has been impressive so far and we are pleased to give him the opportunity to drive for Red Bull Racing.
Very proud to be part of @redbullracing and many thanks to @ToroRossoSpy. A new challenge! RT @VerstappenNL https://t.co/QrpkBWmA5Z
— Max Verstappen (@Max33Verstappen) May 5, 2016
“We are in the unique position to have all four drivers across Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso under long term contracts with Red Bull, so we have the flexibility to move them between the two teams.
“Dany will be able to continue his development at Toro Rosso, in a team that he is familiar with, giving him the chance to regain his form and show his potential.”
Kvyat’s demotion comes despite the Russian driver scoring a podium at the Chinese Grand Prix one race earlier.
