Max Verstappen to Mercedes? Ralf Schumacher weighs in with strong conviction, hinting that the Dutch driver’s move in 2026 is increasingly likely. The former Formula 1 driver suggests who could be replaced and explores potential alternatives for those affected.
The rumours surrounding a possible switch of Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing to the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team for the 2026 Formula 1 season are becoming more frequent and intense, especially in the lead-up to the 2025 British Grand Prix at Silverstone. The future of the reigning four-time World Champion remains uncertain, and his recent comments have only added to the speculation that he may not stay with the Milton Keynes-based team beyond the current era of regulations.
Adding fuel to the speculation is the contract situation of George Russell. The British driver’s current agreement with Mercedes is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, and so far, there has been no official confirmation from the Brackley-based outfit regarding a renewal. Among the many questions circulating around the paddock, one stands out: could Max Verstappen become Mercedes’ lead driver in 2026?
Ralf Schumacher, a former Formula 1 driver and now a pundit for Sky Deutschland, offered a bold perspective on the matter during his appearance on the podcast Boxengasse. The younger brother of seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher appeared confident that the scenario is indeed plausible.
“I would say it really looks that way,” Ralf Schumacher stated, referring to Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes. He then focused on George Russell’s role in the situation. “I’m just curious to see what will happen with George Russell. Toto Wolff won’t leave him in limbo. I’m curious, because he also needs a competitive car. He’s lobbying everywhere, but if he has to go to Red Bull, that’s not such a straightforward choice. It’s a tricky situation. I’m really curious—it’s quite fascinating.”
Is it just about Russell?
According to Ralf Schumacher, the most obvious outcome would be Max Verstappen replacing George Russell at Mercedes. However, the German analyst also pointed to another scenario that could involve young talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the highly rated Italian driver currently in Mercedes’ junior program. If Max Verstappen were to join the Silver Arrows, it might end Antonelli’s short-term future with the team before it has even truly begun.
“There’s also the possibility that Toto Wolff decides to relieve Kimi Antonelli of some pressure and send him to another team for a couple of years,” Schumacher added. “That could definitely happen. I don’t know, but someone has to make room. Right now, for George Russell, there are two possibilities: either he gets pushed out, or he ends up racing for a different team and becomes a direct competitor. That’s a situation not to be underestimated.”
In the event of a potential departure from Mercedes, a logical destination for George Russell could be Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team, but it may not be the only option on the table.
“Yes, Aston Martin would be a good alternative,” Ralf Schumacher said. “Lawrence Stroll has always aimed to have a World Champion in one of his cars. That’s been his vision from the very beginning. Of course, George Russell is not a World Champion yet, but he would be a good fit for Aston Martin. And let’s not forget Flavio Briatore, who is still very much involved behind the scenes.”
With Verstappen’s future still uncertain and the 2026 regulations set to radically change the competitive landscape of Formula 1, the market dynamics involving Mercedes, Red Bull Racing, George Russell, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, and even Aston Martin are likely to be at the centre of ongoing developments throughout the rest of the season.
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