Report: Max Verstappen in secret talks with McLaren over shock transfer. Formula 1 transfer bombshell: Max Verstappen linked with McLaren switch.

Daily Mail: Max Verstappen in talks with McLaren

A sensational new twist has emerged in the Formula 1 driver market, with reports suggesting that Max Verstappen is seriously considering a move to McLaren. According to the Daily Mail, the four-time world champion has entered preliminary discussions with the Woking-based team about what would be one of the most dramatic transfers in recent F1 history.

A transfer market bombshell

Earlier today, Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, through journalist Giorgio Terruzzi, reported that Mercedes had decided to activate the option in George Russell‘s contract, securing the British driver through the 2027 season. Such a move would effectively close what had long been considered Max Verstappen’s most realistic escape route from Red Bull, as the Dutchman had been consistently linked with Mercedes over the past few years.

However, on Thursday evening the Daily Mail, in an exclusive report by well-connected Formula 1 journalist Jonathan McEvoy, published a stunning claim:

“Max Verstappen is in secret talks with McLaren over a sensational move away from Red Bull. The star could switch as early as next year, with Oscar Piastri heading in the opposite direction.”

The reported Verstappen-McLaren talks

According to the British publication, Max Verstappen and McLaren have already opened preliminary discussions aimed at pairing the Dutchman with Lando Norris. The negotiations are described as being conducted “in complete secrecy” and could see Max Verstappen arrive at Woking as early as 2027 by triggering the well-known performance clauses included in his Red Bull contract.

As part of the proposed scenario, Oscar Piastri would move to Red Bull, a team that has reportedly admired the Australian driver for some time.

The Daily Mail also quoted a source as saying:

“McLaren really likes this idea and, if the project comes together, it could happen in 2028 or perhaps even earlier.”

An intriguing additional detail is that, should the move take place in 2028, Max Verstappen could once again work alongside Gianpiero Lambiase, who is scheduled to take up the role of Chief Racing Officer at McLaren that year.