Rumours are swirling through the Formula 1 paddock that Max Verstappen, despite his long-term contract, could be on the move from Red Bull to Mercedes for the 2026 season.
Is Max Heading to Mercedes?
The F1 world is abuzz with speculation about Max Verstappen’s future. Reports suggest that discussions initiated by Verstappen’s own camp are now in “advanced talks” with Mercedes.
According to Sky Italy, a deal might be nearing completion, though the Mercedes board still needs to give its formal approval.
Mercedes’ Perspective
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has acknowledged the ongoing interest. He stated the team is “exploring what a four‑time world champion is going to do in the future,” with final decisions on drivers expected around the summer break in early August.
George Russell, Mercedes’ current driver, whose contract doesn’t extend to 2026, admitted that the team is naturally “back on top” and conversations with drivers like Verstappen are indeed happening.
Red Bull Stands Firm
Unsurprisingly, Red Bull is downplaying the rumours. Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, dismissed the chatter as “a lot of noise,” reiterating that Verstappen is contracted until 2028.
Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko also weighed in, noting that any exit clause in Verstappen’s contract is performance-dependent. He asserted that there’s currently “absolutely no reason that this contract won’t be fulfilled.”
The Crucial Contract Clause
However, reports suggest Verstappen’s contract does contain a specific clause: he could leave if he isn’t in the top three of the Drivers’ Championship by the summer break, following the Hungarian Grand Prix on August 3.
As of now, Verstappen is indeed sitting in third place, only narrowly ahead of George Russell. This detail adds significant weight to the speculation.
Why Mercedes is a Strong Contender for 2026
A major factor driving Mercedes’ interest is the significant regulatory overhaul coming in 2026. This includes new engine rules, and Mercedes is widely predicted to be a dominant force in this new era.
This situation mirrors Lewis Hamilton’s strategic move in 2012 from McLaren to Mercedes, just before the 2014 hybrid era began. That decision paid off immensely, leading to years of Mercedes domination.
Expert Insights
F1 legends are also weighing in. Jenson Button has hailed Verstappen as “probably the best racing driver that’s ever raced in a Formula 1 car” and stressed that the right team choice for 2026 is crucial.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown even anticipates a Mercedes switch for Verstappen, perhaps by 2027, highlighting the general feeling of uncertainty and intrigue surrounding the situation.
Verstappen’s Own View
Max Verstappen himself has remained pragmatic and tight-lipped on the matter. He recently stated, “I determine my own future,” neither confirming nor denying the swirling reports.
- Max Verstappen is rumoured to be in “advanced talks” with Mercedes for a 2026 move.
- His Red Bull contract reportedly includes an exit clause if he’s not in the top three by August 3.
- Mercedes hopes to dominate the 2026 regulatory changes, making them an attractive option.
- Red Bull maintains Verstappen will honour his contract until 2028.
With the British Grand Prix on the horizon, all eyes will be on Silverstone. The next few races, coupled with Mercedes’ internal discussions, could set the stage for one of F1’s most significant driver transfers in recent memory, following Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari.
