Max Verstappen to Leave Red Bull for Mercedes in F1 2026!

Max Verstappen’s future with Red Bull Racing has become a hot topic as speculation mounts that the four-time World Champion may leave the team for Mercedes at the start of the F1 2026 season. Despite being contracted with Red Bull until 2028, reports suggest Verstappen could trigger an exit clause if the team underperforms.

Robert Doornbos, a former Red Bull driver, recently reignited these rumors, predicting that it will be “difficult” for Red Bull to retain Verstappen beyond next season. He cited Red Bull’s declining performance and tensions within the team as potential factors influencing Verstappen’s decision.

Declining Performance and Internal Struggles

Verstappen’s dominance in F1 has been undeniable, securing his fourth consecutive title at the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix. However, the RB20’s lackluster performance in 2024 has raised concerns. Tensions between Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, and Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, have further fueled rumors of a potential split.

Mercedes, known for its strategic dominance, has reportedly been eyeing Verstappen for some time. Toto Wolff, Mercedes’ team boss, previously expressed interest in signing Verstappen for 2025 but instead opted for young talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli as Lewis Hamilton’s successor.

Advanced Preparations for 2026

Mercedes’ preparations for the F1 2026 rule changes have been described as advanced, with the team hoping to replicate their dominance from the V6-hybrid era. This could make Mercedes an appealing destination for Verstappen, especially if Red Bull fails to deliver a competitive car.

Doornbos believes that a challenging title defense in 2025 might push Verstappen toward Mercedes. He stated:

“What more do you need to develop it [the car]? The regulations don’t change. You can’t expect to get a completely different concept car. Believe me now: in 2026, he won’t be there.”

Aston Martin’s Ambitious Play

Aston Martin has also emerged as a potential contender for Verstappen’s services. Their partnership with Honda, starting in 2026, and the recruitment of renowned F1 designer Adrian Newey underline their ambitions. Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin’s owner, is reportedly “sparing no expense” to secure Verstappen.

Verstappen Must Prioritize Himself

2009 World Champion Jenson Button weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Verstappen’s loyalty to Red Bull may be tested if the team cannot maintain its competitiveness. Button noted:

“Maybe he will look elsewhere, but they’ve given him so much over the last few years… He’s got to think of number one, which is himself.”

Button also pointed out that Verstappen has previously expressed frustration with the demands of F1’s growing calendar and has hinted at retiring young. However, Button believes Verstappen’s passion for racing will keep him competing in other formats, such as endurance racing or sim racing, if he leaves Formula 1.

Will Verstappen Stay or Go?

While Verstappen has publicly stated his intention to stay with Red Bull, the persistent rumors, combined with Red Bull’s recent struggles, leave his future uncertain. As Mercedes, Aston Martin, and even a possible sabbatical loom as potential options, the coming seasons could redefine Verstappen’s legacy in F1.

The question remains: Will Red Bull rise to the challenge and keep their star driver, or will Verstappen’s quest for continued dominance lead him to a new team—or a new racing series—by 2026?

FAQs

1. Does Max Verstappen have a contract with Red Bull beyond 2026?
Yes, Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull extends until the end of the F1 2028 season. However, reports suggest there may be exit clauses tied to team performance.

2. Why is Mercedes a strong contender for Verstappen?
Mercedes’ advanced preparations for the 2026 rule changes and their history of dominance make them a tempting option for Verstappen.

3. Could Verstappen retire from F1 after his current contract?
Verstappen has hinted at retiring young due to the demands of F1. However, he is expected to continue racing in other formats if he exits Formula 1.