The future of Max Verstappen in Formula 1 has become a topic of intense speculation following a discreet meeting in Sardinia, Italy. Despite having a contract with Red Bull until 2028, rumors have surged that the reigning world champion is preparing to join Mercedes, a claim reinforced by a private encounter with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff.
Verstappen and Wolff’s Secret Meeting in Sardinia Raises Eyebrows
After the British Grand Prix, Max Verstappen traveled to Sardinia, which appeared initially to be a leisure trip. However, the presence of Mercedes boss Toto Wolff on the island triggered widespread conjecture about a confidential negotiation regarding Verstappen’s 2026 contract. Neither party has confirmed these rumors, yet the timing and setting have intensified speculation across Formula 1 circles.
Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya interprets this meeting as a finalization of an agreement. In his view, the fact that Verstappen reached the stage of meeting Wolff indicates that all significant details have been resolved.
Max meeting with Toto was probably to sign already. For Max, to even reach that point in the conversation, means everything has already been seen, discussed, and decided.
—Juan Pablo Montoya, Former F1 Driver
The Timing of the Meeting Follows Turbulence at Red Bull
The alleged Sardinia rendezvous came shortly after Red Bull parted ways with Christian Horner, their team principal. Speculation suggests Verstappen was a driving force behind Horner’s dismissal. Red Bull has not disclosed any reasons for the leadership change, but the departure has deepened uncertainty about the team’s future dynamics, especially considering Verstappen’s possible exit.
Why Verstappen Aims to Finalize Contract Directly with Mercedes
The significance of Verstappen potentially moving to Mercedes cannot be overstated, perhaps rivaling recent high-profile switches in the sport’s history such as Lewis Hamilton’s transfer to Ferrari. Sources suggest that Verstappen is keen on signing any contract face-to-face with Wolff, highlighting the importance of this alliance for both parties.
You know what I mean — it’s the final step. Like, ‘Okay, I want us to work together, let’s do it, sign here, let’s go.’ I’m sure they wanted to sign face to face. They’re not going to send the first contract and do it all remotely. So I think that could be what’s happening.
—Juan Pablo Montoya, Former F1 Driver
Montoya also speculated that Sardinia was chosen as the meeting point to maintain discretion, allowing both Verstappen and Wolff plausible deniability by appearing to be on separate vacations. Traveling to Mercedes’ headquarters in Brackley would have undoubtedly attracted more public scrutiny.
Continued Silence Fuels More Rumors Amid Red Bull’s Internal Struggles
Despite the flutter of rumors linking Verstappen to Mercedes, no official statements have been issued by either the driver or the Mercedes team. Red Bull remains steadfast that Verstappen is contractually committed to them for the coming years. Still, these ongoing whispers about his future deepen the crisis at Milton Keynes, particularly following the shakeup involving Horner.
If the move to Mercedes is confirmed, it would mark a major upheaval in Formula 1’s competitive landscape, potentially reshaping team strategies and driver line-ups for years to come.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a millionaire?
A. As of December 2024, Verstappen’s net worth is about $200 million, says Celebrity Net Worth. He gained his wealth through endorsements, investments, and a high Formula 1 salary. Before 2020, however, his salary was lower than that of top Formula 1 drivers.
