Mercedes continue Verstappen pursuit amidst Red Bull decline

Verstappen himself seems at peace with this year’s title race, showing virtually no frustration in the media pen despite being taken out by Antonelli.

For the first time since 2020, therefore, it looks as though Verstappen won’t emerge as Champion.

On paper, one year without Championship success after four successive triumphs is far from a disaster.

At Red Bull, however, this year’s failure is more costly when put into context.

To many, this year represented Red Bull’s best chance of clinching another title with Verstappen before the 2026 regulations which – by all estimates – could be a challenge for Christian Horner’s personnel.

As Red Bull prepare to debut their own power unit, their chances of retaining their status as front-runners is significantly lower.

It is partly because of this that Horner has signalled a willingness to develop further into the season than other teams.

Fighting for the title would have incentivised Verstappen to continue at the team and ignore any offers from elsewhere.

Mercedes work to capitalise on potential Verstappen opening

Contractually, Mercedes’ efforts to sign the 27-year-old might seem like a waste of time. After all, the Dutchman’s existing contract does not expire until 2028.

However, a recurring talking point this year – Verstappen’s contract clause – could change the playing field.

The paddock consensus is that if Verstappen is below third in the Championship at the summer break, he can activate an exit clause in his contract.

Only a few weeks ago, his points tally meant this clause was unlikely to become a factor.

Things have changed quickly, though, with George Russell now only 9 points behind Verstappen.

Ironically, Russell could facilitate Verstappen joining Mercedes if he overtakes him in the Championship.

As of yet, there is still a long way to go before Mercedes and Red Bull can lock down their 2026 line-ups.

More so than in previous years, there is a genuine possibility for a series of blockbuster moves between these front-runners.

With the 2026 regulations less than a year away, the next few months of negotiations could define F1 for the near future.