Max Verstappen has been urged to leave Red Bull shortly after being linked to a meeting with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff in Sardinia. This encounter has intensified Max Verstappen Mercedes move rumors, suggesting the four-time world champion could be in talks about a potential switch for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Both Verstappen’s and Wolff’s boats were seen docked in the same Sardinian harbor, fueling speculation that discussions took place between the two. Despite Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull running until the end of 2028, exit clauses might allow him to depart for the 2026 campaign if specific performance criteria are unmet.
Expert opinions on Verstappen’s future and Red Bull’s challenges
Former Formula 1 driver and commentator Ralf Schumacher believes that Verstappen’s desire for a competitive car might push him towards Mercedes. He argued that the recent leadership changes at Red Bull have not altered the technical team, with designer Pierre Wache continuing to develop the car. Schumacher pointed out that the replacement for Adrián Newey has struggled to produce a vehicle capable of winning, casting doubts on Red Bull’s short-term prospects.
“He’s only interested in having a good car,”
Schumacher said on the Sky Sport F1 podcast Backstage Pit Lane.
Schumacher further elaborated on Verstappen’s dilemma, stating that the Dutch driver faces a tough decision, as Red Bull’s current outlook seems bleak. To achieve immediate success in the following season, Verstappen might need to consider changing teams.
“That’s why I believe that the journey is going in the direction of Mercedes. I could imagine that he himself is still struggling because he is of course attached to Red Bull.”
—Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver and pundit
Details surrounding the rumored Sardinia meeting
Schumacher mentioned hearing rumors that Verstappen and Wolff were scheduled to meet in Sardinia last week, a report strengthened when yachts owned by both men arrived at the same harbor around the same time. The location, known for attracting paparazzi, made it a notable setting for such a gathering.
Schumacher commented on the paparazzi presence in Sardinia, describing it as a predictable challenge.
“In Sardinia it’s always like this, when you end up there, the paparazzi already know, I know that from my own experience.”
—Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver and pundit
He suggested that the choice of location was not ideal for privacy, implying the meeting was significant given how obvious their presence was.
“They supposedly still stood next to each other, so you can also take care of rumours yourself. I could imagine that they met.”
—Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver and pundit
Potential impacts of the rumors and next steps for Verstappen
Reports have emerged that Ola Källenius, Mercedes’ chairman and CEO, has approved the signing of Verstappen, intensifying speculation about the Dutchman’s future. If these discussions progress, Mercedes could acquire one of the sport’s biggest stars in the near future.
This development raises questions about Red Bull’s ability to retain Verstappen, especially considering the contractual exit clauses and current performance uncertainties. As the 2026 season approaches, the possibility of Verstappen switching to Mercedes remains a focal point for fans and experts alike, highlighting a potentially significant shift in Formula 1’s competitive landscape.
