F1 Today | Red Bull Racing won’t force Verstappen To Stay, Could This Be Tsunoda’s Replacement?

July 17, 2025: F1 world champion Max Verstappen is reportedly approaching a monumental career crossroads as his name surfaces as the most likely candidate for Mercedes in the 2026 season, according to a GPblog insider. Despite having a contract with Red Bull until mid-2028, Verstappen is expected to make a final decision by the summer break — typically late July to early August.

While Red Bull technically holds contractual rights, industry sources claim the team is unwilling to retain a driver who no longer wishes to stay.

Red Bull in Transition

Verstappen’s potential departure coincides with a series of seismic internal changes at Red Bull:

• Christian Horner, the team principal who led Red Bull to multiple championships, was recently dismissed, reportedly to alleviate tension between Verstappen and Red Bull management.
• The move is seen as Red Bull’s attempt to stem unrest and keep Verstappen committed, but many analysts say this does not guarantee his continued presence.

Mercedes Waiting in the Wings

Mercedes has quietly intensified its efforts to sign Verstappen:

• CEO Ola Källenius reportedly gave the green light to pursue Verstappen for 2026.
• Toto Wolff remains optimistic they can lock in a deal by the end of the summer break.
• Sky Italia reports say contract negotiations are “close”, although final board approval is still pending .

What’s Next?

• Decision Deadline: Verstappen is expected to finalize his choice by the summer break.
• Contract Options: He may exercise an exit clause if Red Bull ranks lower than fourth in the standings — otherwise, legal exits remain possible without invoking the clause.
• Mercedes Dilemma: A potential signing of Verstappen could also affect current drivers like George Russell and rising prospect Kimi Antonelli, whose futures remain uncertain.