Verstappen’s new contract with Mercedes: a career change?

In the world of Formula 1, Max Verstappen’s future is causing a stir. After a difficult season with Red Bull, the four-time world champion appears to be considering a change of team. Faced with internal problems and power struggles within the team, Verstappen could be ready for a new challenge. But how does Mercedes fit into this scenario, despite Toto Wolff’s diplomatic responses?

The current context of Red Bull

Red Bull has had a difficult start to the 2025 season. The team’s poor performance led to a series of emergency meetings to discuss the future and necessary improvements. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko confirmed that Verstappen’s “wishes” were at the heart of these meetings, with the focus on resolving the team’s current issues    .

Despite these efforts, Red Bull continues to face significant challenges. The RB21’s lack of competitiveness is evident, and Verstappen is struggling to stay in the points race    .     This has fueled rumors of his possible departure from the team, especially if the car’s performance doesn’t improve.

Mercedes’ interest

Mercedes, for its part, has already expressed interest in Verstappen in the past. Following Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari, Toto Wolff expressed his desire to sign the Dutch driver for the 2025 season. Although the move ultimately fell through, rumors about a possible transfer of Verstappen to Mercedes have not ceased    .

Wolff denied that George Russell’s contract renewal was linked to Verstappen’s situation, but admitted that once Russell signs his new deal, the Verstappen rumors should cease    .     However, uncertainty over Verstappen’s future remains a hot topic in the paddock.

What does this mean for Verstappen?

For Verstappen, a change of team could represent a new challenge and the opportunity to continue progressing as a driver. Although his contract with Red Bull runs until 2028, there are clauses that could allow him to leave the team if the car’s performance doesn’t improve significantly    .

McLaren chief executive Zak Brown has predicted that Verstappen could leave Red Bull at the end of the 2025 season to join Mercedes, citing the Brackley-based team’s stability and potential    .     While these claims are speculative, they reflect the uncertainty surrounding Verstappen’s future.

In short, Max Verstappen’s future remains a mystery. Although Red Bull is working to improve his situation, rumors of a possible move to Mercedes persist. Only time will tell if Verstappen decides to accept a new challenge or if he can overcome his current obstacles with Red Bull. One thing is certain: the world of Formula 1 is watching this exceptional driver’s every move.