The management team of Max Verstappen is gearing up for substantial discussions with Mercedes, contemplating a potential move for the 2025 Formula 1 season. The talks, described as “concrete,” are scheduled to take place post the Miami Grand Prix this weekend, as reported by F1-Insider.
In attendance will be Verstappen himself, along with his father Jos Verstappen and manager Raymond Vermeulen, engaging with senior officials from Mercedes to explore the prospect of a partnership.
Mercedes has openly expressed interest in securing Verstappen as a replacement for Lewis Hamilton, should he depart in 2025. Among those expected at the negotiation table are Toto Wolff, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Ola Kallenius, and Sir Jim Ratcliffe from Ineos.
Despite Verstappen’s existing contract with Red Bull extending until 2028, uncertainties loom over his future, exacerbated by the situation surrounding Christian Horner and allegations of misconduct towards a female employee.
While Horner continues in his role as team principal, discussions surrounding the investigation into his behavior have somewhat subsided in recent races.
Verstappen’s contract includes a clause stipulating that his departure would be permissible if Helmut Marko, a key figure in Red Bull, were to depart.
Speculation over Marko’s future arose during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix amidst rumors linking him to the leak of screenshots from the aforementioned investigation. Verstappen has openly stated that his departure would be contingent upon Marko’s exit.
The impending 2026 F1 regulations add another layer of complexity to Verstappen’s decision-making process. With Red Bull venturing into engine building for the first time, concerns arise regarding their readiness compared to established manufacturers like Mercedes and Ferrari.
Furthermore, uncertainties surrounding the future of Adrian Newey, Red Bull’s renowned designer, may influence Verstappen’s considerations.
Mercedes appears undeterred by the financial implications of signing Verstappen, with reports suggesting they are willing to orchestrate one of the most significant deals in F1 history to secure his services.
With Hamilton commanding a salary exceeding £50 million per year, Mercedes is prepared to invest substantially in Verstappen’s potential.
Verstappen faces a pivotal decision regarding his future, weighing the certainty of another world title with Red Bull against the allure of a potentially smoother intra-team dynamic and increased prospects of success with Mercedes, especially with the anticipated rule changes in 2026.
