Former Haas F1 team principal Guenther Steiner has dismissed speculation linking Max Verstappen to Mercedes. Steiner believes Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has no compelling reason to offer Verstappen a contract for future seasons. He stated that no race-winning team would disrupt its stability for Verstappen.
Steiner argued against the financial outlay required to secure Verstappen. He questioned why a team would commit millions of euros and potentially destabilise its existing structure. Verstappen’s current contract with Red Bull is one of the most lucrative in Formula 1.
‘Why would Mercedes want him?’ Steiner stated on ‘The Red Flags Podcast’. ‘Mercedes has the next superstar driving for them, and with George, they also have a very good driver.’
George Russell is firmly under contract with Mercedes for the 2026 season and beyond, having signed a multi-year agreement. The team also has Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a highly-rated junior driver. Antonelli is widely anticipated for a full-time F1 seat in the near future.
Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari at the end of the 2025 season created a vacancy. However, Mercedes has been actively developing Antonelli, who has completed extensive F1 testing. He is considered a long-term investment for the team.
Verstappen himself is currently under a long-term agreement with Red Bull Racing. His contract extends until the conclusion of the 2028 Formula 1 season. This significantly limits his immediate availability for other teams.
Steiner further elaborated on the potential for internal disruption. ‘The only way Max would come is if George leaves Mercedes,’ he suggested. ‘Max costs much more than George, and it would destabilise Kimi.’
Toto Wolff has previously acknowledged Verstappen’s talent but has consistently emphasised Mercedes’ commitment to its existing driver development. Wolff has often prioritised team harmony and a structured approach to driver progression.
Steiner also dismissed rumours linking Verstappen to McLaren. McLaren has both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri secured on long-term contracts. The Woking-based team has expressed satisfaction with its current driver pairing.
Steiner concluded that Wolff is ‘smart enough not to do that,’ referring to signing Verstappen. He reiterated the significant financial and team stability costs involved.
