Mercedes have a bold stance on Max Verstappen’s £86m Red Bull buyout clause, according to insiders

While Verstappen remains under contract with Red Bull until 2028, growing links to Mercedes could eventually sway him toward a move.

Speaking to Formule 1 Magazine Paddockpraat podcast, Westenburg said those close to Verstappen believe the buyout fee would be insignificant for the Silver Arrows, given the potential financial upside.

“On Sunday I happened to be talking about that with Bob van Oosthoud,” Westenburg said. “He’s a sports marketer but also an advisor to the Verstappen management in the background and he said such a settlement would amount to €100 million or more.”

“He said that is always peanuts for a company like Mercedes because you not only bring in a winner, a champion, a figurehead but also a real brand ambassador and that applied to all kinds of axis who earn back in terms of sporting performances and commercially with merchandise and the brand value of Mercedes.”

Verstappen has publicly stated an intention to see out his Red Bull deal, but much could change if Mercedes present a compelling offer.

Max Verstappen reportedly reached out to Toto Wolff first

Despite Toto Wolff’s ongoing efforts to lure Verstappen, it was the driver who is said to have made the first move – asking to speak about “the future” amid growing belief that Mercedes will have the strongest car in 2026.

Red Bull are set to produce their own power units for the first time under the upcoming regulations, working with Ford on electrification. This shift could play a key role in Verstappen’s long-term decision.

He may wait until 2027 to leave Red Bull, giving him time to see how both teams adapt to the new rules before deciding which is best placed for the next era of Formula One.