P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen staying at Red Bull means the driver he might otherwise have replaced gets to enter a season anchoring a Mercedes F1 team that will actually be fighting for something
Max Verstappen’s decision to stay at Red Bull for the 2026 Formula 1 season will have a significant impact on the grid, particularly affecting drivers like George Russell. Russell is likely to join Mercedes in 2026, finally having the opportunity to compete for victories and championships. The specifics of Russell’s Mercedes deal are still to be determined, but it is expected to happen. Russell’s brief stint in the Mercedes W11 in 2020 showed his potential in a top team, setting the stage for his move to Mercedes in 2026. Despite his strong performances, Russell faces challenges ahead as he transitions to a top-tier team and aims for a title contention.
