McLaren CEO Brown admits 'fear' over Verstappen's potential move to Mercedes

Will Verstappen make the switch from Red Bull Racing to Mercedes in 2026 or 2027? That's the question many in the Formula 1 paddock, and beyond, are trying to answer at the moment. There are plenty of rumours going around, but what the situation really looks like, only a handful of people know. GPblog already summarised the key information earlier.

Sky Sports spoke with Zak Brown and asked the McLaren CEO about the situation concerning Verstappen.

“You’re never totally sure," Brown said to the channel. "But I am a believer that where there’s smoke, there's fire." 

"If everyone was committed to their seats next year, that's what everyone would be saying," the McLaren CEO emphasised. "The fact that everyone's talking, no one's confirming everything, anything, tells me there are definitely conversations going on."

"I said a while ago, I wouldn't be surprised to see Max in a Mercedes," he added. Could this happen as soon as next year? Brown admitted that it could very well be possible.  “I don't think that's out of the question." 

Although his driver, Lando Norris, previously stated that it doesn't matter to him where Verstappen drives, the American sees it differently. "I'd rather see Max in a Red Bull at the moment than in a Mercedes, because he's doing an unbelievable job, of course."