Speculation that Max Verstappen might join Mercedes in 2026 has been officially dismissed, but former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes the rumours served a strategic purpose for both parties. The ongoing chatter around the Max Verstappen Mercedes 2026 rumours persisted throughout much of the season, fueled by Red Bull’s recent performance struggles and Mercedes’ ambitions for the new 2026 regulations and engine development.
Toto Wolff, Mercedes’ team principal, and Verstappen himself did not openly reject the possibility until the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend, keeping the debate alive longer than many expected. According to Ralf Schumacher, this delay in denying the move played a beneficial role for both the driver and the team.
How the Rumours Gave Wolff and Verstappen Leverage
Ralf Schumacher suggested that the prolonged discussions allowed Toto Wolff to maintain leverage in his driver negotiations, especially with George Russell, whose contract was nearing expiration at the end of the season. By keeping Verstappen’s potential switch to Mercedes an open question, Wolff could preserve pressure on his current drivers while managing budget considerations.
“It’s quite good for both sides,”
Schumacher said during an interview with Sky Germany.
“Toto Wolff can keep the pressure on the driver’s side up and thus also save money.”
Schumacher also hinted that Verstappen could use this situation to his advantage by pushing for contract benefits connected to possible technical changes or other conditions beyond just salary.
“Max Verstappen can also keep the pressure up and maybe negotiate an add-on for any technical changes or whatever.”
George Russell’s Role in the Contract Discussions
George Russell’s uncertain future at Mercedes added another layer to the rumours around Verstappen potentially moving to the team. Russell, who was out of contract after the 2023 season, had not finalized his deal during the height of this speculation. However, following the Hungarian Grand Prix, Russell emphasized that his contract renewal with Mercedes was a matter of timing rather than doubt.
Reports from media outlets have suggested that Russell’s upcoming contract could be among the highest in F1, reportedly around £30 million per year, though finalization was delayed as attention remained on Verstappen’s possible switch.
Impact of Red Bull’s Management Changes
The situation became more complex when Red Bull dismissed their long-serving team principal Christian Horner, a move that altered team dynamics and raised questions about Verstappen’s future. Despite speculation, Verstappen’s camp has denied any involvement in Horner’s exit, despite Verstappen’s father Jos having previously advocated for Horner’s removal.
Recently, during a television interview, Jos Verstappen was questioned about these comments by Nico Rosberg, creating an awkward moment but not clarifying any change in Verstappen’s plans.
Why the Speculation Is Now Over
Ralf Schumacher, who has been a notable insider on these developments and even reported that Wolff and Verstappen were seen meeting privately in Sardinia, confirmed that Verstappen will remain at Red Bull for the 2026 season, when the new F1 regulations come into effect. The proximity of Wolff and Verstappen’s Monaco residences, noted by commentator Martin Brundle, underscored that private discussions were easily handled without public attention.
“I also understand that he wants to wait at least another year, no one knows what 2027 will be then,”
Schumacher added.
“But one thing is for sure: Red Bull is 100 percent behind him and will do everything for him.”
These statements emphasize that while the rumours generated significant speculation and tension, Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull remains firm for the foreseeable future. The buzz around the Max Verstappen Mercedes 2026 rumours, although unfulfilled, functioned as a negotiation tool and a means of maintaining competitive pressure between the key figures in Formula 1.
