BREAKING: Max Verstappen given Red Bull departure date by F1

Max Verstappen given Red Bull departure date by F1 boss

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has recently speculated that Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 World Champion, may depart from Red Bull Racing at the conclusion of the 2025 season, potentially transitioning to Mercedes.

Verstappen’s tenure with Red Bull has been marked by significant success, securing four consecutive world championships. However, the latter half of the 2024 season presented performance challenges that have seemingly persisted into 2025. This decline has led to Verstappen not being the frontrunner for the championship for the first time in three seasons. In contrast, McLaren, under Brown’s leadership, has provided drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri with a competitive car, positioning them as strong contenders for the 2025 title.

Brown’s assertion regarding Verstappen’s potential move is based on several factors. He notes that Mercedes has a history of success, having secured multiple championships in the past decade. Additionally, the contractual situations of Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli could create an opportunity for Verstappen. Russell’s contract is set to expire at the end of the current season, and Antonelli is reportedly on a series of one-year contracts. Brown also highlights the stability within Mercedes and their strong performance in power unit development as attractive aspects for any top driver.

The departure of Adrian Newey, Red Bull’s renowned designer, to Aston Martin has further fueled speculation about Verstappen’s future. Despite Newey’s move, Aston Martin has denied any links to Verstappen for 2026 or beyond.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has previously expressed contentment with his current driver lineup, stating he is not interested in signing Verstappen. Wolff emphasized his satisfaction with George Russell and newcomer Kimi Antonelli, indicating a focus on developing their existing talent rather than pursuing Verstappen.

Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull extends until 2028, but it reportedly includes performance-related clauses that could allow for an earlier exit if certain conditions are not met. These clauses could come into play if Red Bull’s performance issues persist, potentially influencing Verstappen’s decision to stay or seek opportunities elsewhere.

As the 2025 season unfolds, the dynamics between teams and drivers will be closely watched. Verstappen’s future with Red Bull remains a topic of interest, with his decisions potentially reshaping the competitive landscape of Formula 1 in the coming years.