Max Verstappen joining Mercedes is another major 2026 storyline that’s easily jumped the gun. Nothing is close yet, and many elements still need to fall into place.
The Dutchman remains with Red Bull through 2028, but there’s reportedly an exit clause that’s available for him, despite it not being too clear what that tie involves or if it is available for this season.
If 2025’s pecking order proves to be correct, Verstappen – who may have already agreed to sign for the German team – will be in a better car. That’s assuming Mercedes even want him, however.
Max Verstappen could look to use Mercedes interest as leverage
A surprising detail has been revealed about the Verstappen-Mercedes link. It wasn’t the Germans who called the Dutchman – it was the other way around.
That adds an interesting context to the way the verdict is being perceived. The first big assumption is that Red Bull’s number one is frustrated with how far the team has fallen away from Mercedes.
However, according to Motosport Italy, he could be simply framing this potential lifetime move as a negotiation The Dutchman is desperate to reduce Christian Horner’s power, and Toto Wolff could be giving him that opportunity.
Verstappen reportedly believes that decreasing the Englishman’s influence is key to improving Red Bull’s competitiveness.
Toto Wolff could have a big problem if Max Verstappen is playing a game
The talk around the paddock is that Mercedes have overtaken Red Bull for next year’s engine, which will only grow their legacy in title hopes.
The main question is who benefits from it. It won’t be Antonelli. He’s not performing well enough to remain in a top drive – despite the signs that he has the potential down the road.
On the other hand, Russell is in good shape as one of the standout drivers this season, but his future remains uncertain.
In this scenario, Wolff seems to be taking a risk without committing to either driver. If he doesn’t clarify Verstappen’s intentions, it could be difficult to turn his competitive car into trophies.
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