Max Verstappen Nears Mercedes Formula 1 Switch Amid Advanced Talks

Max Verstappen's potential move to Mercedes for the 2026 Formula 1 season is gaining credibility, with Nelson Piquet Jr., brother of Verstappen's partner Kelly Piquet, revealing that contract talks are at an advanced stage and only final details remain. This speculation intensified after Red Bull's shock dismissal of team principal Christian Horner and Mercedes driver George Russell's contract extension remaining unresolved amid ongoing discussions with Verstappen. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff acknowledged the talks but indicated that Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli are likely to be the main 2026 drivers, though Verstappen remains a priority option. Former F1 figure Bernie Ecclestone expressed hope that Verstappen stays with Red Bull but emphasized that the driver should compete where he is happiest. Verstappen's current contract with Red Bull runs until 2028, but a clause allows him to leave if his championship standing after the Hungarian Grand Prix is below third, creating a deadline for his decision. The move would mark a significant shift in F1 dynamics, especially as Red Bull struggles with car performance and power unit development, making Verstappen's future a critical concern for both teams.