Speculation continues around Max Verstappen’s future with Red Bull and a possible switch to Mercedes for the 2026 Formula One season.
Adding to these rumors, one of Red Bull’s chief competitors has made some remarks.
During the British Grand Prix weekend, McLaren held an event for fans in Trafalgar Square, London, where they showcased special chrome colors for the upcoming race and featured unique black lace suits for drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. When asked about the rumors regarding Verstappen, McLaren CEO Zak Brown expressed that he wasn’t surprised to see him in a silver uniform.
“Where there’s smoke, there’s often fire. If everyone claims they’re committed to their teams, well, that’s what they’re saying,” Brown told Sky Sports F1.
He noted, “The fact that everyone is discussing this, and no one is denying it, indicates there’s some kind of conversation happening. I mentioned previously that I wouldn’t be shocked to see Max at Mercedes.”
Furthermore, Brown suggested that without Verstappen, Red Bull might find themselves trailing behind their junior team, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.
“Without Verstappen, Red Bull would be behind the Racing Bulls. We’re delivering solid performance with a great car,” he added.
Currently, Red Bull ranks fourth in the Constructors Championship with 162 points, of which Verstappen contributed 155. Yuki Tsunoda has been chosen to take Liam Lawson’s spot before the Japanese Grand Prix.
It seems Lawson was expected to bolster the points, having scored 12 since his move. For VCARB, he has outperformed Tsunoda by more than seven points scored for the senior team.
Brown also hinted to F1 fans, saying, “There may be more chapters in the Verstappen saga, so stay tuned.”
Norris, who is also competing against Verstappen for the Drivers Championship, responded somewhat cautiously to questions about the ongoing rumors. “I don’t mind where he ends up. Max is a tough competitor. He can be challenging, but he enjoys the rivalry,” he stated.
Norris added that Verstappen would “decide what he thinks is best for himself.”
It’s worth noting that there might be some strategic moves at play here. Team principals in Formula 1 are known for their tactical maneuvers, and McLaren has recently taken the lead in the Constructors Championship, with Piastri and Norris emerging in the battle for the Drivers’ title.
Yet, as Brown mentioned, where there’s smoke, there may indeed be fire.
