Max Verstappen has finally ended months of speculation by signing a new multi-year contract with Red Bull Racing that'll keep him at the team through 2030. The announcement closed the book on what's been a proper saga, with the Dutchman's future having been thrown into question thanks to Red Bull's competitive struggles this season. But according to David Coulthard, there's one driver who's going to feel a massive weight lifted off his shoulders now that Verstappen's officially staying put.

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George Russell's seat at Mercedes looked decidedly uncomfortable when Toto Wolff was openly chasing Verstappen's signature. With the four-time world champion potentially free to move, Russell faced the prospect of losing his spot to the grid's most dominant driver. However, Coulthard reckons Russell can now rest easy, knowing his position is secure for at least the next year. The former Red Bull and McLaren driver made the point on the Up To Speed podcast that Verstappen staying at Red Bull is actually good news for anyone whose seat might've been in danger.

Coulthard was full of praise for Verstappen's loyalty to Red Bull, describing the partnership as a perfect fit. He highlighted how the Austrian team gives the 28-year-old the freedom he wants outside of racing, something that apparently mattered in his decision to stay. The Thursday press conference following the announcement was apparently chaotic, with Coulthard noting it was one of the busiest he's experienced in his long career around the F1 paddock.

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With the biggest domino in the driver market now sorted, Coulthard expects silly season to wind down considerably. There are still several teams yet to confirm their lineups for next season, including Haas, Racing Bulls, Aston Martin, Alpine and Audi, but those are relatively minor seats compared to the mega-teams. The impact of Verstappen's deal shouldn't be underestimated, though, knowing exactly where F1's top talent will be racing removes a massive source of uncertainty across the grid.

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Russell gets his security, other drivers stop worrying about being pushed out for a megastar, and Verstappen gets to remain in an environment where he's thriving. It's a win across the board, even if Mercedes might've harbored some hopes about bringing the Dutchman into the Silver Arrows fold.

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