Verstappen’s hopes of securing a fifth consecutive Drivers’ Championship crown have been left in ruins, and Red Bull ’s future as an F1 powerhouse is in doubt. In Mercedes, the Dutchman has been handed a route out of the chaos, although in taking up the offer, he would be moving away from the squad that delivered him a modern motorsport dynasty.

An insider from Max Verstappen's camp has claimed he will be “with” Mercedes next season. Verstappen ’s future has been the subject of debate and intense paddock speculation after it was revealed the four-time world champion has held talks with Mercedes about a switch for 2026.