Red Bull could make an unexpected move in the driver market if Max Verstappen decides to leave the team, with former Formula 1 driver Jolyon Palmer identifying Mercedes star George Russell as a leading candidate to replace the reigning world champion.
Speaking about Red Bull’s potential options, Palmer argued that Russell would be the most logical choice if Verstappen were to complete a sensational switch to Mercedes. In his view, the move would make perfect sense for both teams, allowing Red Bull to secure one of the grid’s most accomplished drivers while Mercedes would gain Verstappen, widely regarded as one of the sport’s greatest talents.
Palmer believes Red Bull’s strategy would largely depend on Verstappen’s destination. If the Dutch driver joins Mercedes, Russell would become an obvious target for Red Bull. However, if Verstappen were to sign elsewhere, the Milton Keynes-based team could instead look toward McLaren’s highly rated pairing of Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri as possible long-term replacements.
Speculation surrounding Verstappen’s future has intensified throughout the 2026 Formula 1 season. Although he remains under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, reports suggest his deal contains a performance-related exit clause. If certain conditions are met—particularly if he remains outside the top two in the drivers’ championship by the summer break—Verstappen could have the option to leave before his contract expires.
The uncertainty comes during one of Red Bull’s most difficult campaigns in recent years. After dominating Formula 1 for several seasons, the team has struggled to consistently challenge at the front in 2026. Reliability issues, inconsistent pace, and strategic setbacks have prevented Verstappen from mounting a serious title challenge, leaving questions over the team’s immediate future.
Verstappen has also been increasingly vocal about his frustrations. A series of mechanical failures has cost him valuable championship points, while recurring technical problems have raised concerns within the team. Among the most alarming incidents were two high-speed crashes on consecutive race weekends, both linked to a recurring rear-wing issue that Verstappen reportedly described as “super dangerous.”
Beyond the car’s performance, Red Bull has also experienced significant changes behind the scenes. Internal disagreements over technical direction and car setup have reportedly added to the tension, while the departure of several influential figures has altered the team’s structure. The exit of long-serving team principal Christian Horner last year marked the end of an era, and Red Bull has continued adapting to major leadership changes ever since.
Despite the growing rumors, Verstappen has not publicly confirmed any plans to leave Red Bull. However, his future remains one of the biggest talking points in the Formula 1 paddock as rival teams closely monitor the situation.
Should Verstappen decide to move on, Red Bull would face the enormous challenge of replacing a driver who has delivered four consecutive world championships. According to Palmer, George Russell stands out as the most straightforward solution if Mercedes becomes Verstappen’s next destination, while McLaren stars Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri could also emerge as attractive alternatives depending on how the driver market unfolds.
