Max Verstappen. Image: @_HenryMill/X
Cracks in the Red Bull empire: Is Verstappen leaving?
Red Bull faces driver unrest as Max Verstappen and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff spark transfer rumours. Could we see a switch?
Max Verstappen. Image: @_HenryMill/X
The recent investigation into Red Bull Racing has sparked a firestorm of speculation about the future of their star driver, Max Verstappen. Central to the rumours are conversations between his father, Jos Verstappen, and Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff.
According to The Telegraph, Max Verstappen himself could consider a move to Mercedes if Red Bull’s internal tensions continue to escalate.
Bahrain Blow-Up
The Bahrain Grand Prix offered a glimpse into the strained dynamics within the Red Bull camp. A heated exchange between Jos Verstappen and team boss Christian Horner sparked critical remarks from the former F1 driver. While Jos later chose to keep further details under wraps, the incident highlighted simmering discontent.
Wolff and Verstappen: Raising Eyebrows
Verstappen’s post-race conversation with Wolff fueled the rumor mill. While Wolff dismissed it as a simple congratulation on Verstappen’s win, noting that F1 drivers are always drawn to the “fastest car”, the meeting is still significant.
The two camps have maintained a frosty distance since the controversial 2021 Silverstone events, suggesting a possible thaw between Verstappen Sr. and Wolff. Whether Max shares this sentiment remains unclear.
Marko on Wolff: “He’ll Try to Poach Verstappen”
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has voiced his suspicions about Wolff’s intentions. He believes Wolff will attempt to lure Verstappen away, but emphasizes that the reigning champion won’t easily forget the past rivalry.
Could Verstappen Jump Ship?
The Telegraph suggests a Mercedes move is a distinct possibility for Verstappen. Conversations between Verstappen, Wolff, and others allegedly took place on the paddock and at their shared hotel. Jos Verstappen is even rumored to have told associates his son might leave Red Bull if internal issues persist.
Wider Implications
A potential Verstappen move to Mercedes would shake up the Formula 1 landscape. Mercedes would gain an undisputed champion, further destabilizing an already tense Red Bull team. The transfer could also shift the balance of power in a sport where Red Bull has recently enjoyed dominance.
