In the ever-changing world of Formula 1, Zak Brown, McLaren’s top man, is stirring the pot with a bold prediction. Brown forecasts that the current F1 champion, Max Verstappen, will bid adieu to Red Bull and switch allegiances to Mercedes for the 2026 season.
Verstappen’s future has been the subject of intense debate, especially following Red Bull’s competitive slump in 2024 and the brewing tension within the team. The speculation was further fueled when Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time F1 champion, inked a deal with Ferrari. Consequently, whispers started circulating about Mercedes’ team principal, Toto Wolff, eyeing Verstappen as Hamilton’s potential successor.
Despite Verstappen’s insistence on staying put with Red Bull in 2025, Mercedes proceeded to elevate Andrea Kimi Antonelli to share the spotlight with George Russell. Meanwhile, Verstappen’s name has also been linked to Aston Martin, with rumors of a whopping $1 billion offer on the table to reunite him with Adrian Newey.
However, Brown, the architect behind McLaren’s resurgence to the pinnacle of the sport, is confident that Verstappen’s future lies with Mercedes. In an interview with The Telegraph, Brown stated, “I’d bet on Merc,” suggesting that building a winning team around Newey at Aston Martin would require time, culture, and a strong supporting cast.
The McLaren CEO also pointed out Mercedes’ potential advantage with the upcoming next-generation power units in 2026. “Mercedes has won the championship seven or eight times in the last decade,” Brown noted, highlighting the stability and proven track record of the team.
The contractual situations of both Mercedes’ drivers, Antonelli and Russell, could further influence Verstappen’s decision. Antonelli has made a promising start in his F1 career, demonstrating impressive skill in tricky conditions. Russell, on the other hand, has consistently performed well since his move from Williams in 2022, even surpassing Hamilton in the Drivers’ standings twice.
However, the relationship between Verstappen and Russell, which became strained during last year’s Qatar Grand Prix, could add another layer to the unfolding drama. Russell had publicly criticized Verstappen’s attitude after the Dutchman had his pole position rescinded by the stewards.
Despite the speculation, Wolff has previously stated that Verstappen is “not on any radar” for Mercedes. Yet, with the world of F1 known for its surprises, Zak Brown’s prediction could well be the next big plot twist in this adrenaline-fueled saga.
