F1 Today | Verstappen to McLaren move 'imminent' as Ferrari set for Madring filming day

Speculation over Max Verstappen's future has intensified following the British Grand Prix, with multiple sources telling GPBlog that an announcement regarding a move to McLaren is expected soon.

Neither Verstappen nor the two teams involved have commented publicly on the reports, but those familiar with the situation believe the deal is edging closer after a difficult weekend for the Dutchman at Silverstone. A switch to McLaren could also open the door to competing in other racing categories, similar to the opportunity Fernando Alonso was given when he missed the 2017 Monaco Grand Prix to race in the Indy 500.

With both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri already tied to McLaren, one of the current drivers would have to make way. Based on current expectations, Piastri appears the more likely candidate, with Norris entering the season as the reigning Formula 1 world champion and sharing a close relationship with Verstappen.

Ferrari will carry out a filming day at the Madring circuit on Thursday, GPblog can confirm, with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc set to drive the team's current Formula 1 car around the venue for the first time.

The session will mark the first occasion that a current-generation Formula 1 car completes a full lap of the new Madrid circuit, which joins the calendar in 2026 as the home of the Spanish Grand Prix. The inaugural race weekend at the venue is scheduled for 11-13 September next year.

Hamilton and Leclerc head to Madrid after both secured podium finishes at Silverstone. Although Carlos Sainz previously appeared at the circuit, he only completed a showrun on one of its straights in a Williams during 2025 before driving a Mustang around the full layout earlier this year.