Max Verstappen may need a break from Red Bull during the next set of regulations in 2026. The Dutchman has been a loyal member of the Red Bull family since 2014 when he joined their driver academy. However, with the recent difficulties and drop in performance from Red Bull, there is speculation that the current world champion may need a break. It is suggested that Verstappen may take a sabbatical before the regulatory changes of the 2026 season.
Verstappen has been vocal about the challenges he has faced with the RB20 in recent races. As a result, he may consider his options before the regulatory changes in 2026. There is speculation about the possibility of Verstappen joining Mercedes, but it is noted that he would still have to compete against other drivers who have achieved more pole positions and victories. Therefore, Russell, a British driver, would not oppose Verstappen’s arrival at Mercedes.
Verstappen has acknowledged that the only thing he can do is show his skills and performances. This would allow him to showcase his racing abilities against the highly successful Max Verstappen in Formula 1. Russell also believes that it would not be surprising if Verstappen took a sabbatical from Red Bull in 2026 and considered joining teams that are performing well under the new regulations.
In the last two seasons, Verstappen has dominated the competition. Red Bull excelled during the ground effect era and had a dominant campaign. Russell recognizes this and acknowledges that there was a “Verstappen era” in Formula 1, but in the last six years, Mercedes has been the winning team.
In addition, Russell shares his thoughts on his loyalty to Mercedes in the upcoming seasons. Although he is grateful to Brackley for giving him the opportunity to race in Formula 1, his priority is to win the world championship. He believes that Mercedes is not currently the best team and compares it to the highly promising McLaren team.
The 2024 season could be competitive between Red Bull, Ferrari, and McLaren. Mercedes will need to keep up with the updates throughout the season to catch up to Verstappen in the lead. Brackley has been facing challenges throughout the ground effect era and will need to continue updating their chassis. The battle between the top teams at the end of the season will be highly intriguing.
