Verstappen meets Mercedes at Silverstone

By Luke Pons

Max Verstappen to Mercedes? The Rumours, the Reactions, and the Reality

The Formula 1 world is abuzz with speculation that could change the sport’s landscape: Max Verstappen, currently under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, is reportedly in talks with Mercedes over a potential future switch. The possibility of the reigning world champion leaving the team that has helped define his career has long seemed unlikely, but recent developments, public comments, and ongoing team struggles have brought the rumour into sharper focus.

According to reports from The Guardian and Sky Italia, Verstappen is not just on Mercedes’ radar—he is actively engaged in what are described as “advanced talks” with the Brackley-based team. Sources close to the situation suggest that discussions have intensified over the past few weeks, particularly as Red Bull’s dominance has started to waver in the face of increased competition from McLaren and Ferrari. These talks, while unofficial, have reportedly involved key figures on both sides, including Verstappen’s father Jos and Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. Insiders claim the negotiations are centred around a potential seat for 2026, when the next major power unit regulations come into play—a reset that could offer Verstappen a fresh start should he choose to leave Red Bull.

The key element fuelling this possibility lies in the fine print of Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull. It reportedly includes performance-related exit clauses, giving him an opportunity to assess whether the team can continue delivering a title-contending car. With Red Bull appearing vulnerable for the first time in years—following internal tensions, including the Christian Horner investigation, and some inconsistent performances—the door, while not fully open, may be cracked.

Max Verstappen has chosen his words carefully when addressing the speculation. Speaking to the press the Dutchman said, “I do not have to add much to that … the more I say about it, the more it will be reported in the media. And I certainly do not want that. I determine my own future.” He maintained a calm and somewhat dismissive tone, as is typical when he wants to control the narrative around his career. However, Verstappen did hint that the coming weeks could be decisive, adding, “Around the summer break I think it will be clear what will happen this season in terms of performance … I am very relaxed about everything; I just do my thing.”

George Russell, Mercedes’ current lead driver, has addressed the Verstappen links with a surprisingly open and confident approach. “It’s only normal that conversations with the likes of Verstappen are ongoing,” he told Sky Sports F1. “There are two seats … so I guess that’s what the delay is.” He went further in an interview with BBC Sport, saying, “Toto has made it clear to me that how I’m performing is as good as anybody. That is why I have no concern about my future.” And in what appeared to be a subtle challenge to the doubters, Russell stated, “I won’t be going anywhere … the chance of losing my seat is exceptionally low.”

Russell’s words seem to reflect the confidence that comes from internal reassurances, particularly from Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff. Wolff, who has worked with Russell for nearly a decade as part of Mercedes’ junior programme, was quick to defend his driver’s position while not entirely denying the team’s interest in Verstappen. “Nothing more,” he said when asked if the Verstappen links meant anything for Russell’s place. “He has been part of our programme for ten years … he’s always performed. We haven’t given him a car to win a world championship in the last three years, so that’s on us. When the car is good, he wins.”

Wolff also confirmed Mercedes will make a decision on its future driver lineup “in the next couple of months, until the summer break,” but was careful not to dismiss the idea of speaking with Verstappen. “People talk, people explore,” he said. “But it doesn’t change a millimetre of my opinion of George, his abilities, or anything else.” Asked whether the situation amounted to “flirting” with Verstappen, Wolff replied with a smirk, “Define flirting … you can flirt, or you have conversations.”

This balancing act—evaluating the opportunity to sign Verstappen while maintaining team harmony—is one Wolff has managed before. Yet, with the high-stakes nature of F1 and the intense public scrutiny, it’s a fine line to walk.

The intrigue will likely crescendo as Formula 1 approaches the summer break in early August. If Verstappen’s Red Bull situation does not improve and if Mercedes can convince him of a competitive future under the 2026 engine regulations—a blockbuster move may not be as far-fetched as once thought.

For now, Verstappen remains a Red Bull driver. Russell remains Mercedes’ frontrunner. And Toto Wolff continues to keep his cards close to his chest. But behind the scenes, the game of chess is clearly in motion. The next move may define not just the futures of these drivers but the next era of Formula 1.