Max Verstappen rumored to leave Red Bull and join Mercedes for 2026

Rumors are electrifying the Formula 1 world as speculation intensifies that Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, might depart Red Bull to join Mercedes for the 2026 season, potentially teaming up with George Russell, Mercedes’ talented and ambitious driver. Despite Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull extending until 2028, reports indicate it includes a performance-based exit clause, which could allow him to leave if Red Bull’s competitive edge wanes, especially with the team’s recent struggles. The 2026 season will introduce sweeping regulation changes, including new power units and chassis designs, and sources suggest Mercedes’ advanced engine development could be a major draw for Verstappen. George Russell, who has solidified his reputation as a formidable talent with his consistent performances and a victory at the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix, has added fuel to the fire by openly discussing his talks with Verstappen’s management. Russell’s comments, made during a press conference, hinted at Mercedes’ ambition to pair him with a driver of Verstappen’s caliber, though he also expressed confidence in his ability to lead the team. The speculation is further amplified by Red Bull’s recent performance dip, internal instability, and the high-profile exit of design guru Adrian Newey, making Mercedes an increasingly tempting prospect for Verstappen.

However, the prospect of Verstappen joining Mercedes, where George Russell has emerged as a cornerstone of the team’s future, faces significant hurdles. Toto Wolff, Mercedes’ team principal, has tempered expectations, emphasizing his satisfaction with Russell, who has proven his mettle with multiple podiums and a reputation for extracting the maximum from the car, even in challenging seasons like 2023. Wolff also highlighted the promise of rookie Kimi Antonelli, though neither Russell nor Antonelli is contracted beyond 2025, leaving room for speculation about a blockbuster signing. Russell, known for his articulate media presence and strategic approach to racing, has expressed excitement about the 2026 regulations but stopped short of confirming any concrete developments regarding Verstappen. Meanwhile, Verstappen has remained noncommittal, focusing on Red Bull’s current challenges, while his father, Jos Verstappen, has firmly denied rumors of a signed Mercedes deal. Red Bull’s Christian Horner, confident in retaining Verstappen, dismissed the speculation as mere “noise,” but concerns linger about Red Bull’s untested Ford-powered engine for 2026. Russell’s own future at Mercedes seems secure, given his leadership in recent races and his role in mentoring Antonelli, but a potential Verstappen pairing could elevate the team to new heights or spark a fierce intra-team rivalry. With other teams like Aston Martin also in the mix for Verstappen, and the 2025 summer break looming as a critical period, the driver market promises to keep fans on edge.