Steiner picks this top team for Verstappen in Red Bull exit debate: 'Anything can happen'
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Nicole MulderManaging Editor
Nicole Mulder is Managing Editor at GPblog and a specialist in Formula 1 and MotoGP. With years of experience and permanent FIA accreditation at Grands Prix worldwide, she delivers reliable coverage and insights based on direct access to drivers and the F1 paddock.
According to former Haas team boss Guenther Steiner, Max Verstappen would be wise to stay with Red Bull Racing for the 2026 Formula 1 season. In an exclusive interview with GPblog, Steiner explained that switching teams during a year of major regulation changes would be a risky move. With no clear picture yet of which team will have the upper hand under the new rules, he believes staying put is Verstappen's safest and smartest option.
Regarding whether he expects Max Verstappen to stay at Red Bull or leave for another team, Guenther Steiner is clear: "I think he’ll stay at Red Bull next year, and then he’ll see how the cars are. Because next year everything is new — nobody knows where things are going."
According to the 60-year-old Italian, Verstappen would be wise to wait and see which team proves strongest under the new 2026 regulations before considering a switch. "It’s one of those things: he’ll just look around, see who’s there, what the opportunities are. But next year, he’s not changing. At the end of this year, who would you even switch to? It’s a lottery. Stay where you are. It’s still a good team," he explained.
If Verstappen leaves, Steiner is sure: 'It Will be Mercedes'
Should Verstappen consider a switch in 2026, Steiner has clear advice for the Dutchman. “I think Mercedes. That’s my opinion — but it’s an opinion." The German squad currently seems to be in the best
position in terms of engine development, but other factors – including the
chassis – are still a big question mark. "Everything is new. Anything can happen."
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Max Verstappen celebrates his victory in Imola with Red Bull Racing
This article was written in collaboration with Toby Nixon
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