Ex-F1 Driver Gives Reality Check to Red Bull over Max Verstappen’s Mercedes ‘Adventure’

Max Verstappen‘s future in F1 remains the biggest talking point in the paddock. The Dutch driver has reportedly continued to flirt with the idea of leaving Red Bull despite having a contract till the end of 2028. Milton Keynes is trying to do everything to retain the 27-year-old for next season. However, former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher reckons that Mercedes might be a tempting option for the reigning world champion.

Verstappen has publicly stood by Red Bull throughout this year. The 27-year-old insisted that he wants to see his career end at the Austrian team. Milton Keynes even sacked Team Principal Christian Horner last week after rumors of an ultimatum from the Verstappen camp. Just days after Horner’s exit, Max Verstappen was allegedly spotted with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff in Sardinia. Though, there has been no confirmation of the two having any discussions.

Ralf Schumacher asserted that the reality would not make the energy drinks giant happy. The situation looks grim for the Austrian team. Schumacher was adamant that Max Verstappen has no real choice but to leave Red Bull if he wants to have a shot at the world championship next year. Moreover, the former F1 driver pointed out that Mercedes seems to be the bigger ‘adventure’ for Verstappen due to the upcoming rule changes.

They won’t like to hear this in Salzburg, but the signals for Red Bull are not good at the moment. If Max Verstappen wants success in the short term for next year, then he will have to look elsewhere. That’s what I think. And remember, there will be new engines and everything. I think it’s a bigger adventure at Mercedes.

Ralf Schumacher said on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast

Max Verstappen’s management sets eyes on Mercedes switch

Max Verstappen has been a part of the Red Bull family for over a decade. The Dutchman had snubbed Mercedes for Milton Keynes in 2014 when he was offered a Toro Rosso seat for the following F1 season. In 2016, he was promoted to Red Bull Racing at the Spanish GP, where he took an incredible race victory, making him the youngest race winner in history. Since then, Verstappen has achieved immense success with the Austrian team, shattering several records and winning four consecutive world titles.