Max Verstappen, who is under contract until 2028, is rumored to have an exit option tied to the departure of Dr. Helmut Marko from the championship-winning team.
Lewis Hamilton, the highly regarded British driver who will join Ferrari next year, suggested that Mercedes may have their eyes on Max Verstappen as his replacement after his departure.
Hamilton’s unexpected move to Ferrari has caused a stir in the Formula 1 community, leading to speculation about possible changes in team dynamics and driver alliances.
Reflecting on his own surprising decision, Hamilton believes Mercedes may pursue Red Bull’s Verstappen for the 2025 season.
He shared with reporters: “My move has shown that anything is possible, and the next six months or more will be very interesting. I have no additional information.
“I know that… I am sure Max is being considered, but I am almost certain he is committed elsewhere, and I also cannot see why he would leave such a good car.”
Verstappen, who is bound by a contract until 2028, is rumored to have a possible exit clause linked to Dr. Helmut Marko’s departure from the championship-winning team.
This comes amid controversy surrounding team principal Christian Horner and allegations of misconduct, which resulted in the suspension of the accuser.
Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, has expressed concerns about internal discord that could potentially divide the team, a sentiment that Max has not publicly contested.
Despite the turbulence, Verstappen remains focused on his current commitments, especially the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
He stated: “No one expected Lewis to go to Ferrari.
“In life in general, you never know what is going to happen or what may influence you.
“So you can never say with 100 percent certainty that things will end in a certain way… but I am very calm and satisfied with the team, and the performance is there, so there is no reason to leave.”
This story highlights the unpredictable nature of Formula 1, with Hamilton’s departure and possible changes on the horizon.
Verstappen’s future, despite his current satisfaction at Red Bull, is a topic of speculation, as the F1 community closely watches for any changes in the driver lineup.
