The bombshell F1 transfer that would see Max Verstappen join McLaren

Brown and Verstappen at McLaren — Photo: © IMAGO

Max Verstappen

The bombshell F1 transfer that would see Max Verstappen join McLaren

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Sheona Mountford F1 Journalist

Motorsport journalist working in F1 since 2024.

Friday 15 May 2026 08:27

Discussions are reportedly underway between Max Verstappen and McLaren regarding a potential F1 move.

Amid the swirling rumours, there's talk that Oscar Piastri could head to Red Bull instead. Meanwhile, rival Mercedes is closely monitoring the situation to stay ahead of any shifts in the pecking order.

Verstappen’s future has become a major talking point within the paddock this season after a difficult start, where he currently sits seventh place in the standings.

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Although the Dutchman is under contract with Red Bull until 2028, the inconsistent performance of the RB22 is fuelling speculation about an early exit from the Milton Keynes squad.

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Could Verstappen and Piastri swap teams?

F1 journalist Joe Saward reveals that talks have already begun between Verstappen’s camp and McLaren to explore future possibilities, and writes that: "Rumours suggest that McLaren is in talks with Max Verstappen."

A direct transfer would have significant implications for McLaren’s current line-up, where Lando Norris and Piastri form the driver duo. However, the journalist indicates that a specific arrangement might be devised to ease this transition.

"Under such a scenario, an intriguing swap could take shape, with Oscar Piastri heading to Red Bull while Verstappen moves to Woking," he explains.

A move by Verstappen to McLaren would dramatically shake up the grid, putting additional pressure on other top teams. The Woking outfit already benefits from a technically superior package, and adding a driver of Verstappen’s calibre could give them an even bigger edge in the fight for world titles.

This is a scenario Mercedes, with Kimi Antonelli currently leading their charge in the championship, would prefer to avoid in order to safeguard their own title ambitions. As a result, Mercedes is reportedly looking to intervene proactively in the transfer market.

Saward also reports that Mercedes is considering making an offer to block a potential deal between Verstappen and McLaren.

"Mercedes might be tempted to put forward a counteroffer just to prevent Verstappen from moving to McLaren," he notes regarding team boss Toto Wolff’s strategic calculations.

However, he quickly points out the steep financial cost of such a move, and concluded: "The price tag would be enormous – something that Mercedes may not be willing to shoulder."

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