P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen is involved in “concrete negotiations” with Mercedes amid a willingness to exit his F1 deal with Red Bull, according to an Italian media report.
Max Verstappen is in talks with Mercedes to potentially leave Red Bull, as reported by an Italian media outlet. The rumors of Verstappen joining Mercedes were revived by George Russell’s statement about ongoing negotiations between the two sides. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff hinted at the validity of Russell’s claim but suggested that reaching an agreement is unlikely. Sky Italy disclosed that Verstappen’s team is actively discussing a possible switch to Mercedes for the 2026 season. If Verstappen were to move to Mercedes, either George Russell or rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli would have to make way as his teammate. Wolff emphasized the importance of concluding the team’s driver lineup decision before the summer break ends in late August, with openness and transparency being crucial in the process. Red Bull remains unfazed by the reports linking Verstappen to Mercedes and reaffirms their commitment to retaining him long-term, despite the ongoing speculations. Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, dismisses the renewed talks as mere “noise” and stresses that Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until 2028. Horner further explains that any discussions about Verstappen’s future outside this contract are purely speculative and not a cause for concern for the team.
