Ex-F1 driver slams critics over ‘too easy’ Max Verstappen to Mercedes claims

Former F1 driver Christijan Albers asserted that Max Verstappen will not so easily decide to ditch Red Bull for Mercedes.

Ex-F1 driver slams critics over ‘too easy’ Max Verstappen to Mercedes claims

Toto Wolff and Max Verstappen (images via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen remains the talk of the town in Formula 1. The reigning world champion’s future in the sport remains uncertain. Despite having a contract till 2028 with Red Bull, rumors have persisted that the Dutchman might potentially join Mercedes. Now, former F1 driver Christijan Albers has slammed critics for continuing such claims.

So far, Verstappen has not directly shown interest in joining a rival team. Previously, the 27-year-old was rumored to have received a $1.2 billion from Aston Martin. Moreover, reports of Mercedes being in talks with Max Verstappen had also increased. Nevertheless, Red Bull boss Christian Horner recently labeled the rumor mill as just ‘noise.’

Christijan Albers declared that many pundits were thinking that Max Verstappen could ‘too easily’ make a move to the Silver Arrows. Albers pointed out that the Dutchman does have a valid contract with Red Bull. He further asserted that it is not as easy for a driver to get out of such contracts. Though, there have been reports that an exit clause might allow Verstappen to make a decision on leaving the team during the summer break. However, it is likely that the four-time world champion will take his time before considering such a big move.

I think all analysts think too easily that Verstappen can just make a move. We have to keep in mind that a lot of contracts have been signed, and a contract is not something that can be easily broken. So it won’t be that easy.

Christijan Albers said on De Telegraaf’s F1 podcast

However, it is likely that Max Verstappen will take his time before making such a big decision. The 27-year-old will be keeping a close eye on Red Bull’s development for the 2026 rule change. Verstappen might also stay in touch with the progress made by Mercedes or perhaps even Aston Martin to finally make a call on his future.

Toto Wolff might want Max Verstappen after Miami GP

The Miami GP was a rollercoaster for Toto Wolff‘s Mercedes. Initially, its prodigy Kimi Antonelli had a great start as he became the youngest driver to take pole position in any F1 session. On the other hand, George Russell showed good consistency.

Max Verstappen and George Russell (via Red Bull Content Pool)
Max Verstappen and George Russell (via Red Bull Content Pool)

Christijan Albers claimed that on the first two days of the weekend, Toto Wolff might’ve thought that he won’t need Verstappen as his two drivers were performing well. However, his mindset would’ve changed completely once he saw the 27-year-old’s incredible push on Sunday. The Dutchman tried to get the best result possible without giving an inch to his rivals.

On Friday and Saturday, Toto Wolff might have thought: ‘why do I need Verstappen?’ With Russell being consistently fast and maybe extracting the maximum from the car, and with Kimi Antonelli who suddenly takes pole position, who has talent and speed. But then you see the race on Sunday and you see a fighting Verstappen who doesn’t give an inch, then I think you are thinking differently. Then he would probably think that it would be fantastic to reel this guy in.

Christijan Albers explained

Certainly, Max Verstappen is a driver that every F1 team would want to have. Wolff has tried to play down rumors in recent weeks. However, it is clear that the Austrian billionaire would try to grab the opportunity if Verstappen does express interest in joining the Silver Arrows. Yet, it remains to be seen if the reigning world champion makes such a big step for next season.

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