Since his debut world title in 2021, Max Verstappen has been the show-stopper for the Red Bulls. Even in 2024, the racing sensation is doing what he does best. He has won four out of five races, missing out only at the Australian GP due to a mechanical failure.
However, the topsy-turvy landscape of Formula One promises one thing—expect the unexpected. Despite a contract that extends to 2028, Verstappen is eyeing an early exit from Red Bull Racing. As per reports, Sr. Verstappen and Max’s manager are in talks with Mercedes for a dream transfer.
Mercedes-Verstappen Mega Deal Discussions In Line
The consequence of internal politics and potential fallout is Max Verstappen’s team setting up a meeting with Mercedes Delegacy. Speculations have been surrounding Duthcman’s future as things are ‘not well’ between his team and the principal, Christian Horner. Although the team boss was acquitted of allegations, Jos Verstappen believes Horner will ‘Tear Apart’ Red Bull.
On the other hand, Toto Wolff, the astute Mercedes boss, observed all the internal mayhem and apparently saw it as the perfect opportunity to secure the reigning world champion. With Lewis Hamilton set to leave for Ferrari, Wolff is on the lookout for a worthy replacement. And there is no one better than Max Verstappen. Reports suggest that the current World Champion, his father, and manager Raymond Vermeulen will meet Mercedes representatives after the conclusion of the Miami GP. Toto Wolff, CEO Ola Källenius, and Sir Jim Ratcliffe will also be present during the discussion.
As per the reports, the Silver Arrows have a lucrative proposal with an annual salary reaching €150 million, apart from bonuses. The Dutchman will also be Mercedes’ ambassador, and his duties will extend outside the racing track.
Will Verstappen Take The Risky Turn?
It seems like the Austrian team is under pressure as they might lose their star driver to rivals. However, it’ll be interesting to see whether Verstappen is willing to take this risk. The Dutch racer has an impeccable record with Red Bull’s racing machine. On the contrary, Mercedes has failed to produce a Championship-worthy car. Thus, to acquire the world’s best current racer, the Silver Arrows have to roll up their sleeves.
However, Verstappen’s Red Bull contract until 2028 might be a hurdle to cross. The early exit clause requires the team advisor, Helmut Marko, to leave with the Dutchman. Apparently, the 80-year-old is a close ally of Sr. and Jr. Verstappen, having been with the racer since his F1 debut. Moreover, Marko has already said that he will not stand in the way of Max, making his Red Bull exit a high possibility.
In recent times, Red Bull management and their Team boss have been under scrutiny as the team engineer and designer, Adrian Newey, left the team. The chief technical officer’s departure signifies that ‘all is not well’ with the Austrian racing team. With the chief engineer’s departure and the Mercedes luring RBR’s star racer with a dream transfer, it looks like Red Bull’s four-year domination might come to an end.
