Verstappen before change? McLaren boss brings unrest to the F1 paddock!

Verstappen before change? McLaren boss brings unrest to the F1 paddock!

Formula 1 is in turmoil! Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, could leave the Red Bull Arena after this season or even move to Mercedes! McLaren team boss Zak Brown caused quite a stir in an interview with Britain's Telegraph when he claimed that Verstappen will most likely move to Mercedes at the end of the 2025 season. Brown estimates that Verstappen has the opportunity to move to Aston Martin, but he is clearly placing his bet on Mercedes. “If I were to bet, I would bet on Mercedes,” explained Brown.

Helmut Marko, Red Bull's motorsport advisor, responded to these speculations before the sprint qualifying on Friday. “The situation is not yet as dark as Zac would like to see it,” said Marko in an interview with “Sky”. However, he admits it could be difficult to retain the four-time world champions if the team's performance drops this season. "Max wants to have a car with which he can win. If we can't give him that, then it will be difficult to keep him," continued Marko.

Verstappen and the future at Red Bull

Verstappen still has a contract with Red Bull until 2028, but uncertainties over the team's performance this season could influence his decision. Rumors of a move to Mercedes have increased, especially after Lewis Hamilton announced his contract extension with Ferrari. There is speculation that Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff is favoring Verstappen to replace the seven-time world champion.

The developments surrounding Verstappen, his future in Formula 1 and potential team changes are being closely monitored. Brown points out that the stability at Mercedes and the upcoming racing rules over the new engines in 2026 could be a decisive advantage for Verstappen. “We know Toto likes him,” Brown added, further fueling speculation surrounding Verstappen.