Zak Brown predicts Max Verstappen will leave Red Bull for Mercedes, citing team stability and Toto Wolff’s long-standing interest in the Dutchman.
The McLaren F1 boss isn’t one to hold back, and once again, he’s shaking things up. After calling Red Bull’s driver choices “always strange” in Melbourne, he’s now predicting a major shake-up: Verstappen to Mercedes.
“Oh, I think he’s leaving at the end of the year—probably for Mercedes F1.”
Aston Martin has also been thrown into the mix, especially with Adrian Newey’s expected arrival. But for Brown, it’s not just about having the best designer.
“Adrian is the greatest of all time, no doubt. But success isn’t just about one person—you need the right team, the right culture, and that takes time.”
So, where does Verstappen go? Brown has his bet.
“If I had to put money on it, I’d say Mercedes.”
Why? Their track record speaks for itself.
“In the last ten years, they’ve won seven or eight championships. Even last year, they took five wins. They’re stable. And let’s not forget—Toto Wolff is a big fan of Max.”
There’s also the engine factor.
“HPP [Mercedes High Performance Powertrains] is in the best position heading into the 2026 regulations.”
And then there’s the driver market.
“George Russell’s contract is up at the end of the season. Kimi Antonelli only has a one-year deal. Toto has kept all his options open. I think he’s playing his cards very quietly this year—especially after last year’s not-so-subtle flirting!”
If Brown is right, F1’s biggest star could be on the move. The only question is—how soon will we know for sure?
- Discover More>Can McLaren Go 1-2 in China’s Sprint Showdown?
- Follow us on >Facebook and >Twitter for F1 updates
Zak Brown predicts Max Verstappen will leave Red Bull for Mercedes, Zak Brown predicts Max Verstappen will leave Red Bull for Mercedes,
