Max Verstappen, at the center of intense Max Verstappen Mercedes transfer speculation, addressed ongoing rumors about a possible move to Mercedes for the 2026 Formula 1 season during media engagements at Silverstone ahead of the British Grand Prix. Facing persistent questions from journalists, the Red Bull driver reiterated his focus and loyalty to his current team, attempting to quiet swirling reports and uncertainty about his future on the F1 grid.
Verstappen Confronts Rumors of a Blockbuster Move
This week, rumors linking Verstappen with a surprising switch to Mercedes gained traction following a Sky Sports Italy report suggesting he had agreed to join the Silver Arrows in 2026. The speculation has trailed Verstappen and the entire grid through multiple race weekends and reached a new intensity as the British Grand Prix approaches. During Thursday’s press sessions at Silverstone, Verstappen was direct but restrained in his comments, refusing to further fuel sensational headlines, saying he has “nothing to add.” He tried to shift attention away from external narratives that have dominated F1 conversations in recent weeks.
When pressed further, Verstappen stated,
What I said last week. Other people write stuff, that’s great but it’s not for me.
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Driver
A Desire to Stay With Red Bull for Entire Career
As journalists asked if he could envision driving for another team in the future, Verstappen was adamant in deflecting.
“I’m going to say no, because if I say yes, people will make up headlines again, and that’s not what I want,”
explained the Dutch driver, doubling down on his aspiration to see out his F1 career with Red Bull.
He elaborated on the longstanding goal he shares with his current team:
I always said to the team it would be ideal, and I think they think the same way, to finish off my career in Formula 1 with one team,
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Driver
He continued, emphasizing his shared vision with Red Bull by adding,
I think that would be something amazing, and that’s what we are still trying to achieve.
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Driver
Shifting F1 Technical Landscape and Mercedes’ Prospects
The heightened rumor mill is partly fueled by impending changes to Formula 1’s technical regulations set for the 2026 season. The new rules will introduce a significant change in power units, with a 50/50 split between the internal combustion engine and electric power. Many in the paddock believe these changes could provide an advantage to Mercedes, reviving memories of their dominance that began with the shift to turbocharged hybrid engines in 2014. Reports of strong test results add to the speculation that Mercedes could emerge as the team to beat when the regulations take effect.
As a result, stories have circulated claiming Verstappen might consider Mercedes if they become the sport’s dominant force again. Yet Verstappen was quick to dismiss the idea that chasing the fastest car is a viable long-term strategy, stating,
That is anyway difficult in Formula 1 to always try to be in the fastest car, because then you have to look into the future. Who would have known that two years ago this would be the case now? That is also something that I don’t really spend a lot of focus on.,
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Driver
Focus Remains on Improving Red Bull’s Situation
While acknowledging the challenges Red Bull is currently facing, Verstappen stressed that his energy is devoted to maximizing performance with his current team. He pointed out that F1 is unpredictable, and the fastest car this season may not hold that status next year given the rapid development cycles and regulatory changes. He remarked,
That’s exactly what F1 is about. Sometimes you luck in, you win three-four-five-six-seven-eight titles, who knows? That’s also part of the game.
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Driver
Future Uncertainty Amid Ongoing Driver Market Speculation
Despite Verstappen’s best efforts to manage the media narrative, his position as one of the most talented and sought-after drivers on the grid ensures that speculation about his future will persist. The dynamics of the F1 driver market remain as uncertain as the technical directions the sport will take in the coming years. With the 2026 season’s regulations approaching and teams like Mercedes eager to regain dominance, Verstappen’s next career steps will be closely monitored in the racing world and beyond.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a millionaire?
A. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Verstappen’s net worth is estimated to be around $200 million.
Q. What gender is Max Verstappen’s baby?
A. Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet have shared happy news just before the Miami Grand Prix. The couple recently welcomed their first baby together, a daughter. They announced the birth of their baby girl to the public.
Q. What is Max Verstappen’s baby gender?
A. Max Verstappen and his partner, Kelly Piquet, have announced the birth of their first child. The couple shared that they had a baby girl.
Q. Is Penelope not Max Verstappen’s daughter?
A. Penelope is not Max Verstappen’s daughter. Some people get confused because of her name and their curiosity about Verstappen’s personal life.
Max Verstappen is famous for his racing skills, but he does not have a daughter named Penelope.