It appears that one of the most spectacular transfers in Formula 1 history is indeed on the cards. A move from Max Verstappen, who has been under contract with Red Bull since his debut in 2015, to Mercedes next year no longer seems unthinkable. Some sources even claim that the paperwork is already with the lawyers of both parties…
In Formula 1, every word, no matter how simple or insignificant, carries weight and meaning. Nobody says anything without an ulterior motive. This includes George Russell, who is awaiting a new contract with Mercedes, and has stated that his employer is ‘in discussion’ with Verstappen. The Brit finds this logical, given the status of the four-time world champion. “Every team wants Max,” Russell admitted previously. “He would be the first choice for everyone.”
Speculation about the Brit’s future has been rife for months, especially after his victory at the Canadian GP two weeks ago. Team boss Toto Wolff has been claiming just as long that Russell’s contract extension is a formality. But apparently, it’s not. In the run-up to the race in Austria, the boss sounded more defensive despite a lot of flattering words about his lead driver.
“These kinds of discussions flare up due to a lack of information from the media every summer,” Wolff stated. “In business, contract negotiations are not conducted in the town hall, but behind closed doors. Everything is going according to plan. It doesn’t change my opinion about George, his qualities, or anything else. I am extremely happy with a line-up of George and Kimi (Antonelli).”
The position of the Italian teenager, whom Wolff is a big fan of and acts as a father figure to, seems to be unquestionable. His recent podium finish in Canada has reinforced the team boss’s belief that Antonelli (18) is Mercedes’ future star. On the other hand, Russell, who climbed up through Mercedes’ training program, is replaceable. But only for Max Verstappen. The fact that contract negotiations with the Brit are still not finalized also has to do with his demands. Russell wants a multi-year contract, Wolff prefers a one-year deal. This is to keep the option for Verstappen potentially open even after 2026.
Royal Welcome for Verstappen
Verstappen’s salary will not pose a barrier, nor will the sponsorship of his other racing activities (GT team and sim racing team Redline). The red carpet has been rolled out, a survey among Mercedes staff in Stuttgart already revealed that the potential arrival of Verstappen is widely supported. This is important in these uncertain times for car manufacturers.
Bit by bit, the path to a spectacular transfer seems to be being paved. Preliminary talks are no longer denied, Verstappen did not want to confirm out loud in Austria that he will also be driving for Red Bull in 2026. A sign on the wall? There are escape clauses, which reportedly could be activated before the summer break. If Verstappen really wants to leave, no one (even with a potential buyout) will be able to stop him. His position of power is too great. And who knows, his race engineer and confidant Gianpiero Lambiase might follow him.
Perhaps Verstappen and his entourage, father Jos and manager Raymond Vermeulen, believe it’s time – no matter how loyal the world champion is to Red Bull – for a different direction. With new regulations in 2026 that primarily cater to the importance of a powerful engine, Mercedes is a safe, responsible, and actually the only choice. Because if there’s one thing the German car manufacturer excels at, it’s engine building. Verstappen knows this from experience.
