Formula One star Max Verstappen has reportedly held preliminary discussions with McLaren regarding a potential transfer from Red Bull, a move that could see him partner Lando Norris and potentially involve Oscar Piastri switching to Red Bull. These confidential negotiations, if successful, could lead to Verstappen joining McLaren as early as the next racing season.
Verstappen, a four-time world champion, has been contemplating his future, particularly as Red Bull's performance has reportedly declined since their championship successes between 2021 and 2024. While he has historically prioritized loyalty to Red Bull, the team that has developed his career, sources indicate that McLaren is keen on the prospect of uniting Verstappen and Norris. McLaren CEO Zak Brown had previously explored the possibility of signing Verstappen a couple of years prior but was unsuccessful.
Verstappen's current contract with Red Bull extends through the end of 2028, but it is understood to include release clauses that would permit an earlier departure. He is reportedly keeping his options open to evaluate the performance of top teams under the current regulations, which have been in effect for seven races.
Sources suggest McLaren believes they have a viable chance of signing Verstappen, whose current annual salary at Red Bull is reported to be around £80 million. One source indicated that such a move could occur in 2028, or potentially sooner.
A key factor potentially facilitating this move is McLaren's recent signing of Gianpiero Lambiase, Verstappen's long-serving race engineer. Lambiase, who has been on gardening leave since departing Red Bull in April, is expected to join McLaren by 2028. Verstappen has consistently viewed Lambiase as a crucial element of his success at Red Bull. The departure of Dr. Helmut Marko, Red Bull's motorsport advisor, last year has also been noted.
Meanwhile, George Russell has affirmed his commitment to Mercedes for the 2027 season, addressing speculation about a potential move to the team to replace Verstappen. He stated unequivocally that he will be racing for Mercedes in 2027.