The speculation about Max Verstappen moving within Formula 1 continues unabated. Mercedes is reportedly hoping to be able to sign the reigning world champion in the future.
As “Sport1” reports, a move from Verstappen to the Silver Arrows for the 2026 season is not ruled out. The Dutchman apparently wants to wait and see how the balance of power within Formula 1 develops.
While Red Bull clearly dominated at the start of the season, McLaren, Mercedes and Ferrari have now caught up. Given his 78-point lead over pursuer Lando Norris (McLaren), it currently still looks as if Verstappen will be able to clinch his fourth world championship title in a row this year.
Verstappen will probably stay at Red Bull for the time being – and then?
Verstappen will probably continue to drive for Red Bull in 2025. According to “Sport1”, Dr. Helmut Marko’s continued presence is an important reason for this. Verstappen is said to have had an exit clause, according to which a change would have been possible in the event of Marko’s departure.
But what will happen in the future? As the TV station further reports, in 2025 there will be “certain performance clauses in the contract again” that “make a change possible even without Marko’s help.” While Mercedes can probably hope for 2026, Aston Martin is said to be “not on the wish list” of the F1 superstar. The British racing team is also repeatedly associated with Verstappen.
But the 26-year-old is still officially under contract with Red Bull until 2028. Nevertheless, speculation is likely to continue in the coming months.
Former team owner Eddie Jordan told “Sport1” about the Verstappen issue: “The unrest at Red Bull, the departures of Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley cannot please Max and his father. In addition, Mercedes has turned the corner and is getting stronger and stronger. I would therefore be anything but surprised if Max moves to Mercedes in 2026.”
Source: www.sport.de
