Milton Keynes, January 21, 2026
Verstappen’s Future: Could a Move to Mercedes Be on the Cards?
Table of Contents
Speculation is mounting about whether Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen might leave Red Bull for Mercedes, potentially reshaping the sport’s competitive landscape.
- Max Verstappen’s current contract with Red Bull runs through 2028, but includes performance-based exit clauses.
- Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher questions the potential compatibility between Verstappen and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff.
- The arrival of new engine regulations in 2026 adds uncertainty to Red Bull’s future competitiveness.
- McLaren and Aston Martin have also been mentioned as potential destinations for the reigning champion.
The future of Max Verstappen is the biggest talking point in the Formula 1 paddock, and the possibility of a move to Mercedes is gaining traction. Despite remaining loyal to Red Bull Racing, the reigning champion’s contract, which currently powers his commitment to Milton Keynes until the end of the 2028 season, isn’t airtight. Performance-based clauses could allow Verstappen to explore other options if the team falters.
Red Bull’s Engine Future and Verstappen’s Options
With significant new engine regulations slated for 2026, and Red Bull preparing to develop its own power units, questions are swirling about the team’s long-term ability to remain competitive. When asked about the likelihood of Verstappen dominating headlines this year, former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher offered a pointed assessment on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast: “I think this will only affect us if the car doesn’t work for some reason.”
Schumacher believes a drop in Red Bull’s performance could trigger a shift. However, he also expressed reservations about a potential pairing with Mercedes. “I don’t see Max Verstappen and Toto Wolff fitting well together yet,” he stated, suggesting a lack of chemistry between the two figures. This raises doubts about whether a move to the Silver Arrows would truly be the best path for Verstappen’s career.
Alternative Teams in the Mix
Schumacher didn’t shy away from naming other teams that would eagerly welcome Verstappen. “Somehow they don’t really fit; I don’t know why,” he said of a potential Mercedes move. “I think obviously a team like McLaren would do anything for Max Verstappen, if they had the opportunity and if they had an open seat. The same goes for Aston Martin.”
Could Verstappen leave Red Bull if the team’s performance declines? The answer remains unclear, but the possibility is very real, given the performance clauses in his contract. As the 2026 season draws closer, all eyes will be on Verstappen to see if he continues his successful run with Red Bull or seeks a new challenge with one of Formula 1’s most iconic teams.
The uncertainty surrounding Red Bull’s engine development and future competitiveness is a key factor influencing speculation about Verstappen’s next move.
The drama surrounding Verstappen’s future is far from over, and the Formula 1 world is watching with intense anticipation. The next few seasons promise to be filled with intrigue as the sport’s biggest star weighs his options and potentially reshapes the competitive order.
