Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull is under scrutiny after reports of intensified talks between the Dutchman and Mercedes have emerged. The speculation comes ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix, where Verstappen faces pressure to deliver for his current team.
Last year, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed interest in signing Verstappen, but the four-time champion publicly committed to Red Bull. Since then, Mercedes has announced Kimi Räikkönen and George Russell as their 2025 drivers, with neither having a confirmed contract for next year.
Red Bull’s team principal Christian Horner dismissed speculation about Verstappen’s future as “a lot of noise,” but the Dutchman remains under contract to Red Bull until 2028. An exit clause in his contract would allow him to leave if he finishes below second or third by the summer break, a scenario that is unlikely given his current position.
The major regulation changes set for next season are thought to be central to any decision about Verstappen’s future. Mercedes is expected to dominate the new power unit regulations, with Red Bull manufacturing their own units for the first time. Without track time, joining Mercedes would require a leap of faith.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/jul/02/max-verstappen-reportedly-in-talks-with-mercedes-over-move