Mercedes Eyes Verstappen in Stunning F1 Shake-Up as George Russell’s Future Hangs in the Balance
In what’s being described as one of the coldest and most dramatic potential moves in recent Formula 1 history, Mercedes is reportedly deep in talks to sign four-time world champion Max Verstappen — a move that could leave current driver George Russell out in the cold.
According to a sensational report from Italy, loyalty appears to be taking a backseat as the allure of Verstappen’s talent becomes too tempting to ignore. The rumor mill exploded ahead of the British Grand Prix after Sky Italy reported that negotiations between Mercedes and Verstappen’s camp had “progressed significantly,” with the deal now said to be “close” — although neither team has officially confirmed any agreement.
What makes the development even more striking is that the move appears to have been initiated by Verstappen’s side, not Mercedes. Team principal Toto Wolff didn’t deny the contact and even gave a calculated response when asked during last weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix:
“As a team principal responsible for the best car brand in the world, it is clear you’re exploring what a four-time world champion is going to do in the future,” Wolff said, fueling even more speculation.
Verstappen is currently under contract with Red Bull Racing until 2028, but that agreement reportedly includes performance-based exit clauses. Given Red Bull’s recent dip in form and Verstappen’s position in the standings — sitting third and only nine points ahead of Mercedes’ George Russell — whispers about his potential exit have only intensified.
The possibility of Verstappen donning silver overalls has thrown the entire F1 paddock into a state of chaos. George Russell, once seen as the future of Mercedes, may now find himself in a vulnerable position despite his strong performances and loyalty to the team. If Verstappen does make the switch, it would not only be a game-changing signing for Mercedes but a potentially career-altering moment for Russell.
Red Bull’s top brass, however, are doing their best to dismiss the speculation. Team principal Christian Horner has brushed it off as “a lot of noise,” while Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko remains confident that Verstappen’s contract is solid and no exit clauses have been triggered — at least for now.
“As things currently stand, there is absolutely no reason that this contract won’t be fulfilled,” Marko said.
Still, the timing of these reports, paired with Verstappen’s known frustrations over recent team dynamics and car performance, suggests there could be more truth to the rumors than Red Bull is letting on.
As the F1 world turns its attention to Silverstone, all eyes will be on Verstappen, Russell, and Mercedes — and whether a bold, unprecedented move is about to reshape the sport’s power structure.
