In what is without a doubt the most shocking development of the Formula 1 season, Max Verstappen has officially confirmed that he will leave Red Bull at the end of the season to join Mercedes. The switch, reportedly worth no less than € 120 million, causes unprecedented commotion in the paddock and has directly led to indignant reactions – in particular from Laurent Mekies, the current team boss of Red Bull Racing.
The rumors about tensions between Verstappen and Red Bull have been circulating for months, especially after various strategic blunders and internal conflicts that have been on the start of the season. Yet nobody expected that the four -time world champion would actually leave the team that made him big – let alone for rival Mercedes, with which he was struggling fierce for years.
During a press conference that was held in London this afternoon, Verstappen stated:
“After years of success with Red Bull, I feel that it’s time for a new challenge. Mercedes has an ambitious vision for the future and I want to be part of it. I am grateful for everything that Red Bull has made for me, but this is a decision I make with conviction.”
But not everyone responded for a moment diplomatic. Laurent Mekies, visibly furious, held a short but powerful explanation at the Red Bull headquarters in Milton Keynes.
“This is a blatant violation of contractual obligations,” he said. “We are considering serious legal steps, including a formal complaint at the FIA for breach of contract. Max had two more seasons to go under his current contract. This is not only disrespectful to the team, but also to the sport.”
According to sources within the team, Verstappen has activated a clause in his contract that allows him to leave prematurely under certain circumstances. Red Bull, however, disputes the validity of this clause and claims that Mercedes has actively contributed to destabilizing their collaboration with Verstappen.
The reaction of Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff was, as expected, diplomatic but confident.
“We are pleased to welcome Max. His talent and experience speak for themselves. We believe that he fits perfectly within our vision and long -term strategy.”
The Formula 1 world is in turmoil. Social media explodes with reactions from shocked fans: some praise the courage of Verstappen to take this drastic step, others feel betrayed. Analysts point out that this switch could drastically change power relationships in sport, especially now that Mercedes is restructured and seems to be on the way to a new dominant period.
Whatever happens, one thing is certain: this transfer is historical. And its aftermath will be felt for a long time – on and next to the track.
