Mercedes has been actively pursuing Red Bull-bound Max Verstappen. The Silver Arrow principal, Toto Wolff, has expressed his desire to sign the triple world champion. Moreover, with Red Bull’s ongoing slump, the rumors of Verstappen eyeing a change intensified. Although Dutchman has clarified his future is with the Milton Keynes-based outfit, there is still a possibility.
Moreover, even Red Bull chief Christian Horner has affirmed Verstappen’s place on the team. However, F1 is an unpredictable place, and things could flip around in a jiffy. Just when the Verstappen-Mercedes debate was subsiding, a former Ferrari racer has re-ignited the fire.
“Anything is Possible In F1” As Mercedes-Verstappen Rumors Re-emerges
With Mercedes officially naming their teenage sensation Kimi Antonelli as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement, team principal Toto Wolff has ruled out any pursuit of Max Verstappen for the foreseeable future. Wolff clarified that Mercedes is fully committed to shaping a future built around Antonelli and George Russell. He emphasized the importance of backing their current drivers and the team, stating that other options would only be considered if the existing situation deteriorated significantly. Wolff compared seeking another driver, like Verstappen, to flirting while in a committed relationship—it’s simply not an option unless drastic changes are needed. He expressed confidence in both his drivers and underscored the mutual respect between the Mercedes team and Verstappen regarding loyalty and long-term strategy.
Despite Wolff’s firm stance on sticking with Antonelli and Russell, former F1 champion Nigel Mansell has suggested that in Formula 1, one should never say never. Mansell believes that while Mercedes has temporarily shut down the Verstappen chase, anything is possible in F1. He even hinted that Verstappen could one day find his way to Mercedes.
As rumors swirl about Aston Martin also expressing interest in Verstappen—especially following the team’s acquisition of F1 design guru Adrian Newey—Mansell believes Verstappen’s future in the sport could see him making a significant switch. He acknowledged Verstappen’s impressive focus, particularly with Red Bull’s recent challenges, and hinted that the reigning World Champion could still make a move to Mercedes despite being under contract. Mansell concluded that in Formula 1, nothing is ever off the table.
Is There An Exit Clause In Max Verstappen’s Red Bull Contract?
Recently, when Verstappen was questioned about the existence of an exit clause in his Red Bull contract, he gave an ambiguous and vague reply, indicating that it may or may not be there. He stated that his main priority right now is to enhance his performance this season, and he isn’t contemplating any future changes at the moment. Verstappen made it clear that thoughts of moving on are not on his mind.