George Russell has had a good start to the 2025 F1 season, securing three podium finishes in four races. The Brit is one of four drivers who could be considered in that title fight with the improved Mercedes. In contrast, Max Verstappen has had a poor start, after slumping to a sixth-place finish in Bahrain.
This has led to Verstappen’s future with Red Bull in question. Reports claim the four-time world champion has an exit clause in his contract that he can activate if he is not in the top three further along in the season. Former F1 driver Martin Brundle believes Mercedes would snap at the chance to sign the Dutchman.
George Russell should be worried about Max Verstappen joining Mercedes, says Martin Brundle
George Russell is revelling this season as the Mercedes lead driver, and is producing consistent results. He is fourth in the championship, just fourteen points behind the leader, Lando Norris. He is also just six points off world champion Max Verstappen, which could be key. If he were to overtake Verstappen, Max could activate his exit clause.
Helmut Marko admitted this was a concern for Red Bull, who could lose their lead driver for free. And Sky Sports pundit Martin Brundle believes Toto Wolff wouldn’t pass up the chance to sign Verstappen, leaving Russell’s future in jeopardy.
Helmut Marko Expresses Concern Over Max Verstappen’s Future with Red Bull After Bahrain GP Setback
Speaking to Sky F1, Brundle said: “I think if Max Verstappen sprung into the marketplace, I would be quite worried for George, actually, because Kimi is obviously their man for the future. So there’s a lot of ifs in there. George is doing a great job for him as team leader, but Toto missed Max once, I don’t think that he’ll miss him a second time should he get the opportunity.”
Despite this speculation, Verstappen might decide not to bail on the team that helped him achieve his four world championships. Max is also still very much in the title fight this season. Red Bull is banking on upgrades in the coming races to help balance the RB21.
Toto Wolff is also rumoured to be happy with his current driver line-up. George Russell is leading the team well and securing podiums for Mercedes. Kimi Antonelli is the driver Wolff and Mercedes are betting their future on. Would Mercedes upset the apple cart by adding Verstappen to their ranks?
Where else could Max Verstappen go?
If Max Verstappen were to leave Red Bull, options could be limited. Ferrari has just spent big money on signing Lewis Hamilton, while Charles Leclerc is their prodigy. McLaren is happy with their line-up, including two race-winning drivers. The best bet for Verstappen could be Aston Martin.
Former Red Bull design legend Adrian Newey has linked up with Aston Martin. He is leading the development of the 2026 car, meaning the Silverstone-based team should improve on their midfield pace. Verstappen would be keen to link up with the man who designed his championship-winning cars.
Aston Martin Looking to Sign Max Verstappen After Adrian Newey Announcment
Honda is also joining Aston Martin for the 2026 season. Honda supplied Red Bull with the engine powering Verstappen to his four titles. Aston Martin could be the most appealing team for Max if Aston Martin can improve their car. But will Verstappen leave, and if he does, who will he join? Leave it in the comments below.
