Max Verstappen says a move away from Red Bull could happen in 2026 after discussions with another Formula 1 team.
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Max Verstappen stayed with Red Bull this season despite having conversations with a rival F1 outfit earlier in the year. The Dutch driver was most strongly connected with a switch to Mercedes, but he ultimately decided to remain with Red Bull and will reassess his options as the sport prepares for a new era with upcoming technical rule changes that could reshape the F1 grid.
Mercedes had long shown interest in Verstappen, with team principal Toto Wolff openly expressing a desire to recruit the four-time world champion. In an interview with BBC Sport, the 28-year-old confirmed he did meet with Mercedes to discuss the possibility of a move.
“I’m not going to lie. For sure, there were talks. But at the same time, it was all very friendly and open. Nothing more than that.” After choosing to stay with Red Bull, Mercedes moved forward with contract negotiations for George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, eventually securing new deals to secure their places on the 2026 grid.
Yet, there’s no guarantee Verstappen will reach the same decision next year. Red Bull expects a slower start to the new season as they develop their own engines in collaboration with Ford, and the Dutchman could rethink leaving if he isn’t in title contention.
Verstappen has acknowledged that a potential departure isn’t solely about securing the fastest car. He emphasized that multiple factors must align, including future roles and other commitments outside of F1. “If I ever would make a change, of course, it’s a big one because this feels like a second family, and that’s not easy to replicate. A change wouldn’t be driven only by needing a faster car or a different environment. There are many aspects around my F1 career and outside interests that all have to come together.”
For now, Verstappen remains focused on the current season. He is contending for a fifth consecutive drivers’ title, although he faces a 12-point gap to championship leader Lando Norris heading into this weekend’s Abu Dhabi race. Regardless of the result, he says he won’t lose sleep over the outcome.
“I’m not going to be crying in a corner. Finishing first, second, or third won’t define my season. I know we had a strong year, even if we weren’t the quickest team overall. Being in the championship fight is a plus, and if we don’t win, it’s not going to sting because I understand where we lost momentum.”
Controversy and questions for readers: If Verstappen’s next move isn’t guaranteed, should a top driver consider switching teams to pursue a better long-term fit or more stable off-track opportunities? How would a potential Verstappen Mercedes collaboration reshape the competitive balance in 2026 and beyond? Share your thoughts in the comments about whether loyalty to a current team should supersede the pursuit of personal or professional growth, and whether engine partnerships with Ford will influence Verstappen’s ultimate decision.
