The Mercedes F1 team is reportedly in contact with Max Verstappen regarding a potential contract negotiation for the 2025 season. His current Red Bull Racing contract lasts till the 2028 season; however, the team’s recent performances have raised some questions.
Verstappen has driven for Red Bull since 2016 and has been one of the strongest drivers on the grid. He clinched four consecutive championships between 2021 and 2024. However, the team witnessed a steep decline in performance this year, which has kept him a little out of contention for the championship. McLaren, meanwhile, has been dominating the grid.
Although Verstappen has been quite loyal to the team with one of the longest contracts on the grid, this could soon change. Sky Italia recently reported that Mercedes is in contact with Max Verstappen for a possible position within the team next year.
This would certainly shake the grid up. It is also speculated that Verstappen’s Red Bull exit clause was activated after last week’s Austrian Grand Prix. He crashed out of the race on the opening lap after Mercedes’s Kimi Antonelli crashed into him in turn four.
Although unconfirmed, rumors state that Verstappen would replace George Russell if he moves. The latter has driven for Mercedes since the 2022 season and has showcased strong and consistent performance with four race wins. He currently partners with Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The 18-year-old debuted this year and has showcased excellent performance so far.
Would Mercedes want to sign Max Verstappen for 2026?
Mercedes is one of the strongest teams on the grid, and it would be an absolute jackpot for them to have Max Verstappen in 2026. However, there could be quite a few setbacks. The 2026 season will witness the new F1 regulations with major changes in the engine and the cars’ aerodynamics.
This will make it a blank canvas for the entire grid. It cannot be said currently who will emerge as the strongest, but Mercedes has been rather strong with the power unit since 2014.
But would it be risky for them to sign Verstappen? The Brackley-based outfit currently has a strong driver lineup with an experienced and a rookie driver who have performed quite consistently so far. Moreover, they are also adapted well to driving cars.
If they were to sign Verstappen next season, one cannot assume that he will be extremely strong. The Dutchman has driven for RBR for almost his entire career. Furthermore, many speculations state that the car has been built around him, as per his driving style.
This could make his Mercedes switch rather difficult. The team would have to spend a lot of time redesigning the car as per his specifications. Moreover, if they are not strong on the grid within the next two seasons, it could be a wasted opportunity for Verstappen. Final verdict? Mercedes currently has a strong lineup up and signing Verstappen wouldn’t be worth the risk next year.
Moreover, none of the reports have been confirmed or hinted by any teams or drivers so far. This could mean that none of this happens. But, it cannot be confirmed as of now.
