George Russell shocked the F1 paddock in Austria by claiming that Mercedes were in talks with Max Verstappen. This looks to be verified after a report by Sky Italia claimed Verstappen was in “concrete talks” with the Silver Arrows, and discussions were in a “decisive stage“.
A reported clause in Verstappen’s contract could see the four-time world champion leave Red Bull at the end of the season if activated. However, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has dismissed the claims, adding that the problem is George Russell’s insecurities over his contract situation.
Max Verstappen knows “where he stands”, says Red Bull team boss
Max Verstappen reportedly has a performance clause in his contract that he can activate. If he is below a certain position in the standings by the summer break, the four-time world champion can reportedly walk away from Red Bull for free.
However, Christian Horner has pushed back on reports that Verstappen and Mercedes are currently in talks. Speaking before the British GP, he said: “Max and the team know exactly where they stand.”
Max Verstappen Breaks Silence on Shock Mercedes Interest Amid Red Bull Drama
Earlier this week, Sky Sports News claimed that Verstappen had not indicated that he wants to leave Red Bull early. They also added that there hasn’t been an official approach from Mercedes for the four-time world champion.
George Russell is in the final year of his contract. The Brit wants to stay at Mercedes, who are thought to have the best engine for the new 2026 regulations. However, if Max Verstappen were to sign with the Silver Arrows, reports claim it would mean Russell leaving, not Kimi Antonelli.
Christian Horner names Oscar Piastri as his “Plan B”
With rumours continuing to swirl over Max Verstappen’s exit, Red Bull is planning a strategy in case the Dutchman does leave. When Horner was asked if they had a “plan B“, Red Bull’s team principal stated: “Ocasr Piastri“.
Piastri has had a solid season so far in 2025, winning five Grand Prix and leading the championship from his teammate Lando Norris. The Australian has shown consistency and blistering pace, and is well worth his lead.
Horner and Piastri do have a history. Back in 2022 admitted that not adding Piastri to his junior program was “something I regret”. The Aussie’s agent is former Red Bull driver Mark Webber, who drove for the team between 2007 and 2013, winning nine races.
Helmut Marko Makes Clear-Cut Comparison Between Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen
The issue for Red Bull is that Piastri is contracted to McLaren until the end of the 2028 season. This means they will have to pay a huge sum of money to buy out his contract. That is, if Piastri wants to leave McLaren. The papaya team currently has the fastest car, and if the Mercedes engine is as good as believed, McLaren will challenge for a long time.
But will Oscar Piastri leave McLaren and join Red Bull if Max Verstappen goes? Comment below and let us know.
