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Max Verstappen Agrees to Join Mercedes in 2026, Pending Board Ratification

Pending Mercedes board sign-off upon activation of Verstappen’s exit clauses in his Red Bull contract, the preliminary deal would displace George Russell.

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Will der Rennstall titelfähig sein, muss Teamchef Toto Wolff einen Tausch vornehmen.

Overview

  • Multiple media outlets report that Max Verstappen and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff have reached a preliminary agreement for the reigning champion to move to the Silver Arrows in 2026.
  • The transfer hinges on formal approval by the Mercedes board and the activation of performance-based exit clauses in Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull, which runs through 2028.
  • Red Bull’s struggles with an uncompetitive 2025 car and the upcoming regulation overhaul in 2026 have amplified speculation over Verstappen’s future.
  • Some members of Mercedes’ board believe that the team’s 2026 power unit could secure a championship without the need for a high-cost signing like Verstappen.
  • If the deal proceeds, George Russell is expected to vacate his Mercedes seat and is likely to explore options at Aston Martin or Red Bull.