Rumors of Verstappen jumping ship first erupted last year after Lewis Hamilton’s blockbuster move to Ferrari was confirmed. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff made it clear he’d love to sign the Dutchman to lead the Silver Arrows into F1’s new era starting in 2026, when new chassis and engine regulation changes will shake up the grid.

Max Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull through 2028, but a performance clause has given Mercedes and opportunity to poach the world champion.

Max Verstappen's future at Red Bull is uncertain as Mercedes rumours grow. Could the F1 star switch teams ahead of the 2026 season?