Max Verstappen is reportedly in preliminary discussions with McLaren regarding a potential move, which could see him partner with Lando Norris. Sources suggest these talks could lead to a significant driver swap, possibly as early as next year or in 2028. The discussions are said to involve Oscar Piastri potentially moving to Red Bull Racing if Verstappen joins McLaren.
McLaren has, however, denied that such talks are taking place. The team has consistently expressed satisfaction with its current driver lineup, comprising Piastri and Norris. Despite this, there have been whispers in the paddock that Piastri is considering his options and might prefer to be the lead driver at a team.
Verstappen’s contract situation and potential move
Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull is set to conclude at the end of the 2028 season. However, his deal is believed to contain release clauses. These clauses could allow him to depart earlier if he is not among the top two drivers in the championship standings by the summer break. This contractual flexibility makes it easier for other teams to pursue him, provided they are willing to meet substantial salary demands, which McLaren is reportedly prepared to do.
The idea of Verstappen joining McLaren has been discussed for some time, with some reports indicating it would be his preferred choice if he were to leave Red Bull. A move to Ferrari appears unlikely, as the team already has Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc under contract. Similarly, a spot at Mercedes seems unavailable, as George Russell has confirmed his commitment to the team for next year.
The possibility of Verstappen leaving Red Bull has been fuelled by recent changes within his current team. His long-serving race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, departed Red Bull in April and is currently on gardening leave, with an expected arrival at McLaren by 2028. Additionally, Dr. Helmut Marko, a long-term ally of Verstappen, left Red Bull last year, which was seen as a significant setback for the driver.
Verstappen’s future has also been a topic of speculation due to his public comments about the sport’s direction. He has expressed reservations about the move to half-electric engines, at times likening the sport to “Mario Kart.” The current 2026 season has also presented challenges for him, as he is currently seventh in the standings, trailing the leader, Antonelli, by 101 points.
Driver contract clauses and team dynamics
The nature of modern Formula 1 contracts often remains confidential. However, Williams driver Carlos Sainz has suggested that Verstappen’s Red Bull contract includes unique clauses that limit his marketing and media obligations. Sainz indicated that such provisions are rare and allow Verstappen more personal time compared to other drivers who face extensive media and marketing commitments.
Sainz commented on the demanding schedule of a 24-race championship, stating that it is nearly impossible for most drivers to manage additional commitments due to marketing and interview duties. He specifically mentioned Verstappen as an exception, noting that his contract allows him to avoid many of these obligations, a condition that Red Bull reportedly accepts.
This situation highlights the varying contractual arrangements and demands placed on drivers within Formula 1. While some drivers, like Verstappen, may have clauses that provide more flexibility, others find their schedules heavily constrained by team and sponsor obligations. The ongoing discussions around Verstappen’s future and potential team changes continue to be a significant point of interest in the sport.
George Russell confirmed his commitment to Mercedes for next year before the Austrian GP.
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Source: gpblog.com
Harry Loxley is a Senior Football Correspondent at NewsGB.org. He spent his early career reporting East Midlands football. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Derby and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Derby, he watches non-league and runs a fan podcast. “Good football writing follows the people, not just the points.”