Palmer: Max Verstappen Would Drive for Mercedes for Free If Given the Chance

Max Verstappen has been the sole challenger as Mercedes have completely dominated this season. They have won every single constructors and drivers’ championship this era.

Additionally, they seem to be getting out of reach from the rest of the grid every season. The pertinent question surrounding Formula 1 right now is – whether this domination will end?

Jolyon Palmer tries to answer these questions in BBC Podcast titled, ‘F1: Chequered Flag- Rise of the Silver Arrows.’ The podcast crew discusses Mercedes & Hamilton’s domination and possible means to put an end to it.

Hamilton is on the cusp of a record-equaling world title this weekend. Hamilton has hinted that he might not come back to the grid next season. However, Palmer sees no reason for Hamilton to leave.

Palmer explained that if that happens, Mercedes will look to get Max Verstappen on board. Palmer said, “But if he doesn’t [join], Mercedes will pinch Max Verstappen and have the news shining light of Formula 1 drivers.”

According to Palmer, Verstappen will pounce on the opportunity.

“Verstappen will jump at the chance to go to Mercedes even if it means getting paid nothing for three years probably,” added the former Formula 1 driver.

Will the 2022 rule change end Mercedes’ domination?

In the history of Formula 1, rule changes have ended numerous domination, like Ferrari’s domination in the early 2000s. More recently, Red Bull’s domination ended by regulation changes that began the record-breaking Mercedes domination.

Mercedes managed to ride off a regulation change in 2017. The podcast mentioned, “But it’s difficult to see that they don’t have resources. They are so far ahead, they can put the resources in the new rules as well.”

Palmer clarifies that Mercedes’ domination is also because their rivals have failed to challenge them. Ferrari have completely lost themselves this season. Meanwhile, Red Bull have only one driver challenging the Silver Arrows. Red Bull’s second driver problems seem to haunt them to date.

According to Palmer, if these two fail to get their act together, the Mercedes domination will continue. There are no reasons to believe the domination will not continue next season.

However, it remains to be seen if the 2022 rule change ends the Silver Arrows domination.

Read More – Mercedes Domination Won’t Go Away, but F1 Fans Have a Lot To Look Forward To in 2021