Fernando Alonso humorously suggested he might act as a consultant to Max Verstappen amid ongoing speculation about the Dutch driver’s potential move to Mercedes. As the Max Verstappen Mercedes switch remains a major topic for the 2025 Formula 1 season, Alonso’s remarks come amid contract uncertainty and team upheaval.
Verstappen, currently under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, reportedly has an exit clause in his deal. Red Bull’s struggles this year, combined with the surprise departure of Christian Horner from the team’s leadership, have fueled rumors of Verstappen considering a switch to Mercedes. Alonso, who has experience navigating multiple team changes himself, was asked for advice but chose to respond with lighthearted humor at the British Grand Prix in Silverstone.
Well, I can be a consultant. But they need to pay a huge amount of money at the moment of advice.
—Fernando Alonso, F1 Driver
Factors Influencing Verstappen’s Next Move
Widely recognized as one of the top drivers on the 2025 grid, Verstappen is in a strong position and faces no need to rush his decision. The introduction of new technical regulations in 2026 will bring major shifts in engine and chassis design, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape. Verstappen may choose to remain with Red Bull for another year to gauge how the field develops before making a final choice.
Mercedes is anticipated to enter 2026 with the most powerful engine, a factor that could attract Verstappen if they demonstrate championship-winning potential. Meanwhile, Red Bull plans to introduce its first self-developed engine in collaboration with Ford next season. Aston Martin is also expected to be a contender, with a new car designed by Adrian Newey and a works agreement with Honda providing competitive strength.
Another possibility for Verstappen could be Ferrari, especially if Lewis Hamilton’s form declines or if Mercedes experiences setbacks that open a seat at the Scuderia. Hamilton’s advancing age and the team’s future dynamics add layers of unpredictability to the driver market.
The Broader Implications for Formula 1
The speculation around Verstappen’s next steps highlights the evolving power balance within Formula 1 as key teams prepare for regulatory changes and new technical challenges. His choice could influence title battles and team strategies for years to come. Fans and insiders alike are watching closely to see if Verstappen’s loyalty to Red Bull will hold or if a high-profile Mercedes switch will reshape the sport’s competitive order starting in 2026.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a billionaire?
A. Different sources suggest that Max Verstappen’s net worth is around $210 million.
Q. Did Max Verstappen apologize?
A. Christian Horner shared that Max Verstappen said sorry to the Red Bull team after he collided with George Russell during the Spanish Grand Prix. This crash caused him to fall from the 5th to the 10th position because of a 10-second penalty.
Q. Who did Max Verstappen lose respect for?
A. Max Verstappen stated that he “lost all respect” for George Russell after a stewards’ meeting in Qatar about a qualifying issue in Formula 1.
Q. Has Max Verstappen apologized to Lando Norris?
A. He doesn’t have to apologize. I don’t feel an apology is necessary from him. I believe it was, as discussed, good racing, sometimes nearly over the line. However, as I mentioned, we’ve talked it over and are both eager to continue racing.