P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Juan Pablo Montoya predicts what will happen if Max Verstappen decides to join Mercedes
Juan Pablo Montoya, an ex-F1 driver, believes that Red Bull may consider Carlos Sainz as a replacement for Max Verstappen if Verstappen were to move to Mercedes. Verstappen’s F1 future remains a hot topic leading up to the Belgian Grand Prix. Speculation has linked the four-time world champion to a potential switch to Mercedes, whose current drivers are both out of contract at the end of the year. The uncertainty surrounding Toto Wolff’s decisions has added to the intrigue. Red Bull’s recent on-track struggles have cast doubt on Verstappen’s future with the team. The departure of Christian Horner from Red Bull could sway Verstappen’s decision-making. Despite expressing contentment with Red Bull, Verstappen values competitiveness and may be tempted by Mercedes’ potential strength under new regulations in 2026. Montoya suggests that if Verstappen moved to Red Bull, Sainz could become his successor, and Kimi Antonelli might be loaned to Williams while George Russell remains at Mercedes. Ultimately, the F1 driver market remains unpredictable and subject to potential shifts in team dynamics.
