Mercedes CEO Ola Kallenius has reportedly given approval for the team to pursue Max Verstappen for the 2026 Formula 1 season. Verstappen, currently contracted with Red Bull until 2028, has been the subject of intense speculation regarding a possible switch to Mercedes.
Kallenius is said to be a central figure behind Mercedes’ interest in Verstappen and has now reportedly authorized the move, signaling a major shake-up in the F1 driver lineup for 2026. This potential transfer would mark a significant change given Verstappen’s current commitment to Red Bull through 2028.
Conflict Between Christian Horner and Jos Verstappen at British Grand Prix
During the recent British Grand Prix weekend, a tense confrontation occurred between Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, and Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen’s father. Former driver Ralf Schumacher revealed the argument was particularly heated, leaving Jos Verstappen
“anything but happy with the situation”
at Silverstone.
This incident took place just as Horner was preparing to depart Red Bull after more than two decades at the helm, adding an element of turmoil at the team during a critical point in the season.
“anything but happy with the situation” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver
Jolyon Palmer Defends Oscar Piastri After Penalty Controversy
Former F1 competitor Jolyon Palmer spoke out in defense of driver Oscar Piastri following a controversial penalty at the British Grand Prix. Piastri was penalized 10 seconds for erratic driving under the Safety Car while leading, a decision that allowed his teammate Lando Norris to claim victory.
Frustrated by the penalty, Piastri’s championship lead has now shrunk to eight points, increasing pressure on the young driver as the season progresses. Palmer insists the penalty was undeserved, maintaining Piastri’s innocence regarding any wrongdoing.
Jenson Button Announces Departure from World Endurance Championship
Jenson Button, the 2009 Formula 1 World Champion and Sky F1 analyst, confirmed he will exit the World Endurance Championship after the 2025 season. Despite stepping back from WEC, Button emphasized that this decision does not mean retirement from motorsport entirely.
The 45-year-old hinted at the possibility of a part-time racing schedule in 2026, keeping his competitive future open. Recently, Button secured a second-place finish at Interlagos, the same circuit where he won his F1 title.
Kimi Antonelli’s Potential Move to Alpine Linked to Verstappen’s Mercedes Switch
Reports indicate that Kimi Antonelli, 18, may be loaned to Alpine for the 2026 season if Mercedes successfully signs Max Verstappen and pairs him with George Russell. With Russell’s contract ending this year, he is considered the likely candidate to be replaced in such a scenario.
The proposal to place Antonelli temporarily at Alpine could provide Mercedes with flexibility in managing their driver lineup amid potential transfers and contract renewals.
Implications of Verstappen’s Possible Mercedes Move on F1 Landscape
The reported green light from Mercedes’ leadership to bring Max Verstappen onboard signals a potential major shift in Formula 1’s competitive landscape starting in 2026. Such a move would disrupt existing team dynamics and could trigger a cascade of contract changes and driver movements.
The tense exchanges between team management figures, including Horner and Jos Verstappen, reflect rising tensions as this transition looms. Fans and insiders alike will be watching closely how these developments impact team strategies and driver performances in the seasons ahead.