Max Verstappen Gives Final Verdict on Mercedes Rumors Ahead of Red Bull’s Home Race

At the start of the season, uncertainty surrounded Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull amid off-track tensions. There was a moment when top teams, including Mercedes, believed he might switch teams. Mercedes saw appointing Verstappen as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement as crucial. However, Verstappen’s announcement that he wants to retire at Red Bull dashed Toto Wolff’s hopes. Since then, Wolff has praised Verstappen extensively to attract the three-time world champion to his team.

Despite Red Bull securing Max Verstappen until 2028, he reiterated his position on staying or leaving the team. When asked if he would leave if Red Bull isn’t the best car of the season, Verstappen replied: “I don’t think that’s how F1 works.” By this, Verstappen might be implying that he won’t leave the team just because they’re not in their absolute best shape, showing loyalty to the team that has supported him. His honest stance ahead of the Styrian Grand Prix is likely to impress fans and critics alike.

He stated that the team is working on next year’s car improvements. “This alone should make you understand where I will drive next year,” the driver bluntly added. There was a debate about whether Verstappen should leave Red Bull. Some argued he should join Mercedes, believing their 2026 engine would make them the fastest. Others insisted he stay at Red Bull, maintaining his dominance as the fastest on the grid.

Mercedes, on the other hand, has shown a desperate interest in Max Verstappen, and Toto Wolff has left no opportunity to compliment the 26-year-old. Previously, there wouldn’t be a day when Wolff breathed without criticizing the same individual. This behavior change happened only when two major incidents coincided. What are they, any guesses?

Toto Wolff is desperately trying to convince Max Verstappen to join Mercedes

Lewis Hamilton’s announcement of moving to Ferrari in 2025 and Red Bull’s internal disputes came to light almost simultaneously. Paired with Jos Verstappen threatening to pull Max away from Red Bull if the dispute prevails in the squad, and Max considering leaving the team in case Helmut Marko left. This sparked curiosity in Mercedes stakeholders’ minds, who set to work immediately. And changing their tone from critical to appreciative, they tried every trick to persuade Max Verstappen.

“But I think Max would look good in silver, wouldn’t he?” suggested Mercedes chief Ola Kallenius. Meanwhile, Toto Wolff admitted he would ‘love’ to have Verstappen at Mercedes. After Verstappen’s outstanding performance at the Japanese Grand Prix, Wolff praised him, saying, his driving and the car are just spectacular. This caught Verstappen’s attention, who noted that Toto was being “really nice” and saying “a lot of nice things.” Despite Wolff’s efforts, Verstappen has made it clear he will stay with Red Bull next year, making his move to Mercedes unlikely for now.

For now (until 2028 hopefully), Max Verstappen’s future remains tied with Red Bull. Verstappen’s loyalty to Red Bull, supported by the team’s commitment to improving their car, has kept him anchored despite speculation and interest from Mercedes.

Toto Wolff’s shift from critic to admirer shows Mercedes’ determination to secure Verstappen, especially with Lewis Hamilton‘s move to Ferrari. However, Verstappen’s clear statements about his intentions demonstrate his dedication to Red Bull, ensuring his place with the team until at least 2028. This loyalty reassures Red Bull and showcases Verstappen’s integrity and commitment to the sport. Should Max stay or leave Red Bull, what are your thoughts on this?