5 Reasons for and against Verstappen move to Mercedes

This week has been loaded with talk of Max Verstappen talking to Mercedes about a possible move there for 2026. Lots of headlines about the possibility but there are five obvious reasons why it might or might not be a good idea.

5 Reasons This Would Be a Slam Dunk for Both Mercedes & Verstappen

1. A Four-Time Champion Joins Mercedes
   Securing Max would instantly elevate Mercedes from a front-runner to a dominant force. This adds championship-winning pedigree to the team and if the car is capable or remotely capable, Max will deliver.
2. Strategic 2026 Engine Edge
   Mercedes is reputedly poised for a strong engine design under the new 2026 power unit regulations. This potentially gives Verstappen a technical advantage over Red Bull’s in-house RBPU as a new engine effort by Red Bull.
3. Enhancing His Legacy
   Verstappen could elevate his “all-time great” credentials by winning with two different teams. That’s something only a few drivers have achieved.
4. Peaceful Team Environment?
   Verstappen has emphasized in the past that he likes less drama in the team. Mercedes might provide a calmer setting compared to recent internal drama at Red Bull as well as the exodus of key personnel such as Adrian Newey, Jonathan Wheatley and last year’s Horner drama.
5. Lucrative & Long-Term Contract
   Mercedes could offer a record-breaking pay package plus post-driving GT racing deals, appealing to Verstappen’s long-term financial and racing ambitions.

5 Risks & Downsides This Could Be a Mistake

1. Mercedes Still in Recovery Period
   Despite historic pedigree, Mercedes hasn’t yet regained dominance under current regulations. Switching now could derail their efforts a bit with car direction and development as he is very particular about the kind of car he likes. It’s not a given that he would thrive in today or tomorrow’s Mercedes F1 car design and handling characteristics.
2. Leaving a Proven Powerhouse
   Red Bull, despite its current issues, remains one of the top teams and it’s hard to underestimate them or at least doing so at your own risk. Much has been said of Mercedes and their 2026 power unit but Red Bull have poured a tremendous amount into their powertrain development so you never know.
3. Risk of Team Friction
   Mercedes could face internal turmoil. Pacing Verstappen with Antonelli could create unstable dynamics and it may do more harm than good for Kim who, let’s face it, is the golden child of Toto and Mercedes in the long term.
4. Potential Contract Fallout
   From what I’ve read, Verstappen has only one performance-based exit clause. Pulling a move prematurely could lead to hefty buyout fees and create resentment or legal battles with Red Bull. The contract and potential buy-out of his contract could be a very expensive proposition for Mercedes. With George, they would save money but is George the kind of certainty of a title if the car is good? I think we know Max would be.
5. Damaging Red Bull Relations
   Red Bull has been good to Max and leaving them now would strain relations for sure. Is that a consideration? Does he view them as a family? My hunch is he doesn’t just as Vettel didn’t or Lewis didn’t at Mercedes when other opportunities presented themselves.

So, is it a slam dunk?

• For Mercedes + Verstappen: Yes. If, and it’s a big “if”, Mercedes can deliver a 2026 car capable of winning, support his legacy ambition, and offer top-level conditions/pay… and potentially buy out his contract if need be.