Ahead of the 2025 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, speculation about Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 has reached new heights, fueled by strong rumors suggesting the multiple world champion could leave Red Bull to join Mercedes starting in the 2026 season.
What Has Toto Wolff Said?
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff confirmed last week that “behind closed doors” talks are underway regarding a possible Verstappen transfer to the Silver Arrows. Wolff explained that the team is exploring all options amid the significant rule changes coming in 2026, which could dramatically shake up the F1 hierarchy.
“It’s important to be respectful to all stakeholders, and a final decision on our driver lineup will come in August after the summer break,” Wolff said, emphasizing that discussions are ongoing and no rushed announcements will be made.
What Are the Journalists and Sources Saying?
According to Sky Italy and Sky Sports News, talks between Mercedes and Verstappen have intensified recently, and the Dutch champion is open to leaving Red Bull before the official end of his contract, which runs until 2028.
However, Mercedes is reportedly unsure whether signing Verstappen is necessary, given that their new car could be the class of the field under the 2026 regulations.
It’s also reported that buying Verstappen out of his current contract could cost an enormous sum, potentially over £100 million.
Contract Situations and the Impact on George Russell
Current Mercedes driver George Russell and his teenage teammate Kimi Antonelli have not yet signed contract extensions for 2026. Russell admitted in Austria that the team is having “conversations” about his future, which has further fueled speculation.
Should Verstappen move to Mercedes, it is widely assumed that Russell’s seat would be at risk. Sources suggest Russell might move to Red Bull or Aston Martin if Mercedes decides to replace him.
How Are the Parties Reacting?
Max Verstappen has remained tight-lipped about the rumors, stating, “I have nothing to add. Others write stories, and that’s fine.”
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner dismissed the speculation as “noise” and stressed that Verstappen has a firm contract until 2028 and intends to finish his career at Red Bull. Horner also noted that much of the rumor stems from the uncertainty around George Russell’s contract status with Mercedes.
Insights and Opinions from the Paddock
Sky Sports F1 experts Martin Brundle and Karun Chandhok have observed that the major changes coming in 2026 create the perfect context for surprising driver moves, and there are clear signs Mercedes is exploring its driver options.
Chandhok pointed out that, regardless of contracts, Verstappen will assess which team gives him the best shot at the title in 2026, and the new regulations could dramatically reshuffle the pecking order.
What’s Next?
With about three races left before the summer break, Verstappen sits third in the standings. His contract reportedly includes a clause allowing him to leave if he is not in the top four by that time. The final decision about his future is expected in August after the Hungarian Grand Prix.
Until then, fans will have to settle for Verstappen’s cautious remarks and the ongoing paddock rumors, which will surely intensify as the season progresses.
