Max Verstappen backed to leave Red Bull for F1 rivals – not Mercedes,…read more
Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 has been the subject of ongoing speculation, with suggestions that the reigning world champion could leave Red Bull, despite being contracted to the team until 2028. Although Verstappen’s current deal ties him to Red Bull for several more years, rumors continue to circulate about a potential move, fueled by tensions within the team and concerns over Red Bull’s recent performance struggles.
One factor contributing to these rumors is the reportedly strained relationship between Verstappen’s father, Jos, and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. This tension has sparked further speculation about whether Verstappen might seek an exit from the team if these issues are not resolved. Additionally, Red Bull, which has dominated Formula 1 in recent years, has faced a decline in form, raising concerns about their ability to maintain their competitive edge. If Red Bull fails to recover their previous dominance, Verstappen may look for opportunities elsewhere.
While Mercedes has long been linked with Verstappen, with team principal Toto Wolff frequently praising the Dutchman’s talent, it is not the only team that could be vying for his services. Mercedes has expressed interest in signing Verstappen, and with the team currently seeking to regain its competitive status, they could view him as the key to leading their comeback. Verstappen’s possible move to Mercedes would be a major headline, especially given the team’s history and current ambition to return to the front of the grid.
However, Verstappen’s potential departure from Red Bull might not be limited to Mercedes. McLaren and Ferrari, both of which have shown strong performances in recent seasons, could also be serious contenders for his signature. With Ferrari aiming to build on their recent form and McLaren continuing to improve, both teams would likely jump at the opportunity to sign the world champion and further strengthen their squads.
Despite these rumors, Verstappen remains firmly under contract with Red Bull until 2028, and any potential move would likely take time to materialize. His future in Formula 1 remains a key point of interest, and any decision regarding his next steps will undoubtedly be one of the biggest stories in the sport for years to come. Whether Verstappen stays with Red Bull or moves to a rival team, his next move promises to make waves in the world of motorsport.
