The Formula 1 Paddock is in turmoil after sensational reports that the much-discussed switch from Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing has failed-and the Dutch champion points directly to Mercedes with the accusing finger.
The speculation about Verstappen’s future had become increasingly intense in recent months. Rumors suggested that the triple world champion considered making a shocking switch to another team in 2026, in which insiders claimed that provisional conversations had already taken place. Sources close to the negotiations hinted that the Kamp van Verstappen in secret had contact with multiple teams, including Ferrari and even Aston Martin. But the most prominent name in the rumor mill was Mercedes, which is openly looking for a top racer to lead them in the new regulations age.
According to reports, Verstappen had reached a “advanced stage” in the conversations with a certain team – presumably Ferrari – but the deal clapped at the very last moment. The reason? Verstappen reportedly believes that Mercedes has intervened behind the scenes to block the transfer.
After the Grand Prix of Hungary, Verstappen was unusually frank to the Dutch media: “There are people in this sport who will do everything to get what they want. I know exactly what happened, and I will not forget.” Although he did not mention Mercedes immediately by name, his words left little to the imagination.
Insiders claim that Mercedes may have put pressure on important sponsors and suppliers, where they would be subtly discouraged from supporting a mega deal for Verstappen with a competitive team. A source close to the situation told F1 Insider: “It is no coincidence that the conversations have been broken down so abruptly. There is a lot of politics in Formula 1, and Mercedes controls the long game like no other.”
However, Toto Wolff, Mercedes team boss, denies any involvement. From Spa he said: “Max is a phenomenal driver, but we have our own plans for the future. Every suggestion that we would sabotage the negotiations of a rival is nonsense.”
Despite Wolff’s denial, fans quickly chose party. Social media exploded with discussions, in which hashtags such as #letmaxgo and #mercedspolitics became trending worldwide. Some fans believe that Verstappen should remain faithful to Red Bull, where he has achieved unprecedented success. Others believe that the reigning champion deserves a new challenge – and that his path has been blocked in an unfair way.
For the time being, Verstappen will remain under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, but this last drama has again put its long -term future in the spotlight. Whether his allegations will disrupt the relationships in the paddock is still to be seen, but one thing is clear: politics in Formula 1 is at least as fierce as the fighting on the track.
As Verstappen himself said: “The truth always comes up in this sport. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow – but she comes.”
