Max Verstappen could be gearing up for one of the biggest team switches in recent Formula 1 history. Fresh speculation linking the reigning world champion with a potential move to Mercedes has sent shockwaves through the paddock. As Red Bull grapples with internal turbulence and Mercedes eyes a reset post-Hamilton, the rumoured transfer could reshape the F1 landscape heading into the 2026 season.
What Team Is Max Verstappen On Currently?
Max Verstappen is currently racing for Red Bull Racing, the team he joined in 2016. Under their banner, he has claimed four consecutive World Championships and become the dominant force in recent Formula 1 seasons.
Despite being under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, recent reports suggest there are performance-related exit clauses that could allow him to leave earlier. Verstappen has been vocal about his autonomy, stating he alone will decide his future. Red Bull's recent struggles, including key technical staff departures, appear to have sparked uncertainty around his long-term commitment.
Why Is Max Verstappen Linked to Mercedes?
According to Sky Sports, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has confirmed that talks with Verstappen have taken place 'behind closed doors', sparking intense speculation across the F1 community. With Lewis Hamilton having joined Ferrari in 2025, Mercedes is actively exploring ways to rebuild its championship credentials. Verstappen, who has expressed a desire for continued success and personal control over his future, may view a move to Brackley as a fresh challenge.
Sky Sports F1 analyst Martin Brundle has weighed in, suggesting Mercedes' interest is not just about Verstappen's talent, but also a strategic move to destabilise Red Bull. A switch would not only bring Mercedes a top-tier driver, but potentially disrupt the strongest partnership in modern F1.
How Verstappen's Potential Move Impacts the F1 Points Standings
As of the latest results, Max Verstappen currently sits third in the 2025 F1 drivers' standings with 155 points. He trails behind McLaren's Oscar Piastri on 216 points and Lando Norris with 201 points.
Red Bull's recent technical struggles, including inconsistent upgrades and underwhelming performance compared to McLaren and Mercedes, have left Verstappen fighting harder for podiums than in previous seasons.
Should he join Mercedes in 2026, with the sport's new engine regulations coming into effect, Verstappen could play a crucial role in tipping the balance of power in the constructors' and drivers' standings.
Red Bull Challenges and Verstappen's Changing Priorities
Verstappen's loyalty to Red Bull may be tested by recent internal changes. The departure of legendary technical director Adrian Newey and a growing lack of confidence in the team's 2025 car development under Pierre Wache have raised eyebrows. Additionally, Verstappen raced without long-time engineer Gianpiero Lambiase at the Austrian Grand Prix, a disruption in a partnership that has been key to his success.
Outside the cockpit, Verstappen has shown signs of shifting priorities. He recently opted to skip the red carpet premiere of Lewis Hamilton's new film, citing a desire to spend time with his partner Kelly Piquet and their children. This emphasis on personal life may influence how he evaluates future team environments.
Will Verstappen Leave Red Bull for Mercedes?
With tensions growing inside Red Bull and Mercedes openly pursuing new talent, Verstappen's future appears less certain than ever. If a switch does happen, it could mark one of the most significant moves in F1's modern era. Whether he stays loyal to Red Bull or jumps to Mercedes for a new challenge, all eyes will remain firmly on Max Verstappen.
