Max Verstappen's 2026 Decision Reportedly Made Amid Mercedes Rumors

Newsweek

5 days ago

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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Max Verstappen, after months of speculation, has reportedly decided where his racing future lies and has come to a firm decision.
According to esteemed Dutch journalist Erik van Haren, Verstappen will be driving for Red Bull Racing in 2026, bringing to a close a saga that had linked the driver to Mercedes.
Van Haren reports that Mercedes boss Toto Wolff is aware of Verstappen's decision and is proceeding to secure a new deal with Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.
Additionally, it was revealed that the performance clause in Verstappen's deal was not triggered.
Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing looks on during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Belgium at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps on July 26, 2025 in Spa, Belgium.
Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing looks on during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Belgium at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps on July 26, 2025 in Spa, Belgium.
Photo byThe clause declared that if he was outside the top three in the drivers' standings at the upcoming summer break, then he could break his contract and sign elsewhere.
Verstappen's current deal expires in 2028, but Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko revealed that the agreement featured clauses that would allow him to leave.
However, the four-time champion is 26 points clear of third place, making it impossible for them to fall to fourth place.
Van Haren pointed out the challenges in leaving this year and how the move could happen next year.
"Leaving without exercising that clause, for example, by waging war internally and having his contract bought out, is out of the question," the journalist wrote in a story on De Telegraaf.
"And even if Verstappen had been able to exercise his release clause, it's highly questionable whether he would have actually embraced it. When asked, manager Raymond Vermeulen said he wouldn't comment on contracts and any clauses, pointing to Verstappen's ongoing commitment to Red Bull.
"Verstappen has always been loyal to Red Bull and would be taking a big risk if he were to switch to another team after this year.
"After all, the Formula 1 regulations are going to be completely overhauled in 2026. Behind the scenes, the talk about the new Mercedes engine is positive, but that, of course, offers no guarantees.
"If next season Red Bull, for the first time with its own engine, proves to be lagging far behind, Verstappen can always make a more considered decision to drive elsewhere in 2027. By then, he'll have a better understanding of the dynamics in the new premier class era."
Wolff should remain interested in Verstappen next season. He is only entering his prime and is established as the best driver on the grid.
A potential backslide from Russell or a plateau from Antonelli should motivate Mercedes to pursue the move as well.
The Mercedes boss is a long-time admirer of Verstappen and will likely go to great lengths to secure the deal.
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