Engaged with Red Bull until 2028, Max Verstappen, Formula 1 world champion for three consecutive years, seems to be the favorite topic in the paddock. Toto Wolff, team principal, and Ola Källenius, head of the management board at Mercedes, seem to be interested in the Dutch driver for a seat alongside George Russell to be filled in 2025.
With Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari, rumors have continued to develop within the team. From a possible contract with Carlos Sainz to the young driver Kimi Antonelli, it seems that the team is leaning towards the reigning champion.
A contract under condition
Although Max Verstappen is registered with Red Bull for the next four years, the leaders at Mercedes do not exclude a possible transfer of the driver to the team by 2026. This is due to a contract that contains a specific exit clause. If Helmut Marko, one of the leaders of Red Bull Racing, were to leave, Verstappen would have the choice to leave with him if he wishes.
However, this option does not seem to be in his plans. Very loyal to his team for years, Max Verstappen confirmed that he is not considering leaving at the moment, but he has not denied the rumors of a departure before the end of his contract. With many seats available on the grid, the choice remains open for the driver.
With the new regulations that will be introduced in 2026, there is no guarantee that Red Bull will keep its place at the top of the championship. This change could be an opportunity for Verstappen to part ways with the team if they fail to produce a car that meets his expectations.
Toto Wolff has already considered Verstappen.
In an interview with the media, Toto Wolff had announced that he wanted to wait before making his decision on who would get the spot alongside the British driver, as no one can predict what will happen. He also confirmed that there were no discussions happening between the team and Max Verstappen at the moment. According to him, Mercedes’ priority is to focus on developing the car, and that when they are able to win a race, the best drivers will be more interested in the team.
This is not the first time that the team manager has mentioned a potential transfer for the champion. A few months ago, he already expressed his interest in recruiting him.
“I think we want to take our time, see where Max’s thinking is at, and at the same time, keep an eye on the other drivers,” he said during a press conference reported by Sky Sports.
“As I said before, if I were him, I wouldn’t leave, at least not for 2025. But it’s up to him to decide, he’s the lead driver, he’s the best at the moment and that’s why it’s up to him to make these decisions.”
Toto Wolff was the only one communicating on this subject until now, but it was on the Sky Sports Germany microphone that Ola Källenius, responsible at Mercedes, confirmed that Max Verstappen was in the running for the 2026 banquet. “The best driver wants to have the best car,” he explained, “and it is our job to put together the best possible offer. The cards will be redistributed in 2026. A new order with new rules. It’s also an opportunity. Who knows? But I think Max would look great in silver, wouldn’t he?”
