Max Verstappen’s presence is a crucial point in discussions about the Formula 1 driver market. The Dutchman’s decision to remain or leave the Red Bull team could significantly influence movements within the category.
Before the Austrian Grand Prix, George Russell vehemently ruled out the possibility of Max Verstappen moving to Mercedes. The British driver assured the press that his stay at the Brackley team for next season is fully guaranteed.
This statement from Russell is in line with paddock rumors, as he signed a contract renewal with Mercedes the previous year, in a 1+1 format covering the years 2026 and 2027.
As for Verstappen, the Dutch driver maintains the same uncertain stance seen in 2025, without confirming whether he will remain at Red Bull. When questioned, the four-time world champion reiterates his commitment to improving the car’s performance and overcoming the challenges the team faces this season, a focus that gains even more weight given his successful trajectory and the impact of any uncertainty about his future.
Although it is not a definitive answer, Verstappen’s stance raises a warning sign for the Milton Keynes team. There are rumors indicating that Red Bull’s top management would be ready to offer a substantial financial sum to ensure the driver’s stay until the end of his contract in 2028.
Behind-the-scenes information from F1 suggests that Max Verstappen’s contract includes a performance clause considered challenging for the bullfighting team. The team would need to secure the Dutchman’s position in the top two in the standings by the Hungarian Grand Prix, with just four weekends remaining to achieve that goal.
To date, Verstappen has only accumulated 55 points, while his main competitors have achieved a significant advantage in the table. The RB22’s performance did not demonstrate the confidence expected in Austria, as seen in the difficulties of the first two practices on Friday, even after the significant upgrades implemented by the team.
Verstappen’s possible arrival at McLaren
The Daily Mail newspaper reported that Verstappen has reportedly started talks with McLaren for a position in 2027 at the Woking-based team. The report indicated that the Dutch driver would replace Oscar Piastri, forming a pair with Lando Norris.
However, GPblog reported that McLaren denied any interest in the four-time champion. This stance is in line with Zak Brown’s previous statements at the beginning of the season, when he defended the maintenance of his two current drivers.
It is important to highlight that both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have contracts in force with the team until, at least, 2027. The British driver is guaranteed his stay at the Woking team until the end of next season, while the Australian signed a multi-year agreement, valid until 2028.
On the other hand, Verstappen signed a contract with Red Bull until 2028, one of the longest-lasting ties on the starting grid.
In a scenario of an unlikely, but possible, departure for Verstappen from Milton Keynes, a place would be available. As Red Bull does not have drivers in its academy to work alongside Isack Hadjar, the situation could open space for the hiring of Piastri or, in an even more distant hypothesis, Carlos Sainz.
Rumors of informal contacts between Verstappen and McLaren
Lawrence Barretto, renowned Formula 1 commentator on F1TV, addressed in his column on the category’s official portal the speculation about a possible team change by Max Verstappen.
Barretto highlights having received consistent information that Verstappen’s close circle had unofficial contacts with McLaren’s leadership. However, he emphasizes that such interactions do not indicate the start of a formal negotiation.
It is natural for businesspeople and drivers to remain vigilant regarding opportunities to change teams in Formula 1. The market is constantly evolving, and all competitors seek to have access to the best car and team possible.
Informal interactions also serve as a means of gathering information, and knowledge is a valuable asset in the world of Formula 1. For this reason, there is not yet enough evidence to say that Verstappen is actively considering a move to McLaren.