Max Verstappen’s next step in Formula 1 remains uncertain despite his contract with Red Bull running until 2028. Recent rumors suggest the reigning world champion may switch teams, potentially joining Mercedes. This speculation intensified after Verstappen’s private trip to Sardinia, Italy, where he reportedly met with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff to discuss a possible 2026 contract.
Whispers of a Major Agreement Following Sardinia Encounter
After the British Grand Prix, Verstappen traveled to Sardinia for what appeared to be a holiday. However, the presence of Toto Wolff on the island around the same time raised suspicions of a secret meeting regarding Verstappen’s future. Neither Mercedes nor Verstappen have confirmed these reports, but the timing of the trip has fueled widespread speculation about the Dutch driver’s intentions.
Ex-Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya offered his perspective on the situation, suggesting the meeting could signal a finalized agreement. Montoya argued that for Verstappen to meet with Wolff personally, all key negotiations and decisions must have already been made, indicating a near-complete deal with the team based in Brackley.
Max meeting with Toto was probably to sign already. For Max, to even reach that point in the conversation, means everything has already been seen, discussed, and decided.
—Juan Pablo Montoya, Former F1 Driver
This alleged clandestine discussion followed Red Bull’s unexpected dismissal of Christian Horner, with rumors circulating that Verstappen desired the Briton’s removal. Red Bull has yet to provide any official explanation for Horner’s departure, but the sequence of events adds to the uncertainty surrounding Verstappen’s position at Milton Keynes.
Verstappen’s Preference for a Personal Contract Signing
A potential move to Mercedes would rank among the most significant transfers in recent Formula 1 history, approaching the magnitude of Lewis Hamilton’s recent switch to Ferrari. It is widely believed that the four-time world champion would command a substantial salary and prefer to complete the signing in person alongside Toto Wolff.
Montoya emphasized the importance of a face-to-face meeting for a contract of this scale, portraying the Sardinia meeting as the final step towards formalizing their partnership. He noted that such an important agreement would unlikely be finalized remotely, reinforcing the idea that both parties sought a private and direct signing event.
You know what I mean — it’s the final step. Like, ‘Okay, I want us to work together, let’s do it, sign here, let’s go.’ I’m sure they wanted to sign face to face. They’re not going to send the first contract and do it all remotely. So I think that could be what’s happening.
—Juan Pablo Montoya, Former F1 Driver
The discreet location may have been chosen deliberately to avoid drawing public attention, providing cover that both Verstappen and Wolff were on separate vacations. Had Verstappen visited Mercedes’ factory in Brackley instead, the meeting would have been far more conspicuous.
Uncertainty Continues Amid Firm Red Bull Contract Claims
No official statements have emerged from either Verstappen or Mercedes regarding the Sardinia discussions, yet speculation remains strong. Meanwhile, Red Bull continues to assert the validity of Verstappen’s current contract, insisting that he is committed to their team for the foreseeable future. However, a confirmed agreement with Mercedes could destabilize the atmosphere at Milton Keynes, which is already experiencing internal challenges after Horner’s departure.
The implications of this potential switch go beyond team dynamics; Verstappen’s decision could reshape the competitive balance of Formula 1, affecting driver lineups and sponsorship arrangements across the sport. Fans and insiders are watching closely as developments unfold, anticipating announcements that could redefine the upcoming seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a millionaire?
A. As of December 2024, Verstappen’s estimated net worth is around $200 million, based on Celebrity Net Worth. He has made his money through endorsements, investments, and his big Formula 1 salary. Before 2020, his salary was lower compared to the top drivers in F1.
Q. Did Max Verstappen apologize?
A. Christian Horner shared that Max Verstappen said sorry to the Red Bull team after crashing into George Russell during the Spanish Grand Prix. This accident caused Verstappen to fall from fifth place to tenth by the end of the race, as he received a 10-second penalty.
Q. Who did Max Verstappen lose respect for?
A. Max Verstappen expressed that his respect for George Russell disappeared following a stewards’ meeting in Qatar concerning a qualifying issue in Formula 1.
Q. Has Max Verstappen apologized to Lando Norris?
A. He doesn’t need to apologize. I don’t expect one and don’t think he should say sorry. I believe it was good racing, even if it got a bit close to the edge sometimes. We talked about it and are both okay with racing again.