Verstappen Dodges Rumors: Future at Mercedes or Red Bull? F1 Analysis

Verstappen Evades Questions About His Future at Mercedes

Silverstone – Max Verstappen has again evaded speculation about his possible departure from Red Bull to join Mercedes in 2026. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has confirmed interest in signing the four-time world champion. Sources indicate that Verstappen has a clause in his contract that would allow him to leave Red Bull, which currently extends until 2028, if he is below third place when reaching the summer break in August. Currently, Verstappen is in third place, with a nine-point lead over George Russell, a Mercedes driver. Reports suggest Verstappen could replace Russell, as the English driver has not yet signed a contract beyond this season. Last week, Verstappen insisted that his only priority is to improve the Red Bull car for 2025, following a series of difficult results.

I have nothing to add. Nothing has changed on my part.

Max Verstappen

Wolff confirmed that he will make a decision on his lineup for 2026 during the summer break, which follows the Hungarian Grand Prix in early August. This is also the time when Verstappen’s clause would or would not be activated, in relation to his position in the championship. Concrete decisions cannot be made until the Hungarian Grand Prix is over.

Red Bull boss Christian Horner seems calm about it. Rumors about Mercedes are believed to come more from Verstappen’s father, Jos, than from the reigning champion himself. The decision on where to race in 2026 is more complex due to regulatory changes in Formula 1, both in aerodynamics and engines. This could reconfigure the competitive order, making it difficult to predict which team will dominate. Sources suggest that Mercedes trusts its engine for 2026, although this does not guarantee success. Red Bull will leave its partnership with Honda and use its own engines, built with Ford. It is believed that this new project may not be the best from the start.

That’s right. That’s why I have a contract with Red Bull.

Max Verstappen

One theory is that Verstappen could stay at Red Bull next season, allowing Russell a one-year contract, to better assess his options. This would also allow him to see if Ferrari or Aston Martin become the dominant teams. It has been suggested that Verstappen might take a break, but the driver categorically denied this possibility.

No, no, of course not.

Max Verstappen

Verstappen has shown interest in participating in GT racing events, including a test at Nürburgring under the name of Franz Herman. Verstappen intends to combine Formula 1 with other races in the future.