Max Verstappen reportedly in “advanced dialogue with Mercedes over 2026 seat” amidst turmoil at Red Bull

F1 insider Ralf Bach claims Max Verstappen and his father are in talks with Mercedes to join the team in 2026.

Max Verstappen reportedly in “advanced dialogue with Mercedes over 2026 seat” amidst turmoil at Red Bull

Max Verstappen (via IMAGO) Mercedes logo (via Mercedes)

Red Bull has consistently seen a drop in their performances in recent races. This was due to several problems with the car’s handling and Sergio Perez’s poor performance. Both Max Verstappen and Perez were dominating the grid at the beginning of the season. However, as rivals McLaren and Ferrari showed improvements, and Red Bull began experiencing issues, their dominance at the front was disrupted. Amidst this downfall, aero-genius Adrian Newey left the team, Verstappen might consider Mercedes’ offer for the next year.

Max Verstappen‘s presence in the team is highly because of Helmut Marko. Red Bull added a clause to Marko’s contract, ensuring his stay until 2026 which will eventually give Verstappen the stability in his position. F1 insider Ralf Bach stated that there are conditions in the Dutchman’s contract that would allow him to leave the team in 2025. This would happen if performance goals for the current season aren’t met. Bach also mentioned that Max and Jos Verstappen, are already in a talk with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff and Ola källenius.

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Still some performance clauses that would make Max’s farewell possible even without Marko’s help for 2025. And in this regard, a confidential, open and regular dialogue is already underway between the Verstappen's, Toto Wolff and Ola Kallenius.
Ralf Bach told formulapassion.it.

Ralf Bach mentioned if Red Bull’s performance continues to decline while, Mercedes’ improves. The Dutchman might already be leaning toward leaving Red Bull for Mercedes. Therefore, Red Bull needs to keep bringing improvement and make sure they perform the last 10 rounds of the season dominantly. Verstappen’s decision to switch teams could already be set in motion, which shows he is closely observing both team’s performance.

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If Red Bull’s performance curve were to continue to drop and Mercedes’ to rise, the decision in favor of Mercedes has already been made.
Ralf Bach added.

Eddie Jordan claims not being surprised of Max Verstappen moving to Mercedes in 2026

Adrian Newey’s manager Eddie Jordan pointed out that Red Bull is facing issues particularly with Newey and Jonathan Wheatley departure. The two were a key figure in Red Bull’s success in Formula 1. This situation has created a worrying situation for Max Verstappen and his father, making the team weak. At the same time Mercedes is getting stronger again. Jordan believed he would not be surprised if the Dutchman decided to join the silver arrows. This could happen if the 26-year-old feels that Mercedes offers a better chance of winning in the future.

Max Verstappen
Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)
The turbulence at Red Bull and the departures of Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley cannot please Max and his father. Furthermore, Mercedes seems to have turned the page and is going from strength to strength. For these reasons, I would not be surprised at all to see Max move to Mercedes in 2026
Eddie Jordan said.

Certainly, Jordan already knows Verstappen would definitely join Mercedes if Red Bull fails to perform better . With two key figures gone, Verstappen likely won’t risk staying with a low-performing team. However, Fans would love seeing the Dutchman in action with the silver arrows in the upcoming season.

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