Verstappen’s new deal with Mercedes: A career change?

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

The current context of Red Bull

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

However, despite these efforts, Red Bull continues to face significant challenges. The RB21’s lack of competitiveness has been evident, and Verstappen has struggled to stay in the points fight .  This has led to rumors of his possible departure from the team, especially if the car’s performance fails to improve.

Mercedes’ interest

Mercedes, on the other hand, has been a team that has shown 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 move for Verstappen to Mercedes have not ceased .

Wolff has denied that George Russell’s contract renewal is related to Verstappen’s situation, but has 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 mean a new challenge and the opportunity to continue growing as a driver. Although his contract with Red Bull runs until 2028, there are rumored 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.

Conclusion

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 whether Verstappen decides to embrace a new challenge in his career or manages to overcome his current obstacles with Red Bull. One thing is certain: the Formula 1 world is attentive to any move this exceptional driver makes.