The F1 world is buzzing with speculation about Max Verstappen’s future, and insider and SiriusXM Speed City host Jon Massengale has dropped some tantalizing insights on the latest episode of the Sportsnaut Interview podcast. Could the four-time world champion ditch Red Bull for Mercedes in 2026, or is he contemplating an even more dramatic move—retirement? Massengale’s recent comments have fans and pundits dissecting every possibility.
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Could Max Verstappen be a target for Toto Wolff and Mercedes?
Massengale suggests Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff might be playing a long game for Max Verstappen.
“This may be the reason that George Russell doesn’t have a contract for next year,” he said, noting Russell’s recent race win. “The fact that he doesn’t, and I think maybe there’s a little bit of Toto Wolff holding out that he might get Max Verstappen.”
The idea of Max Verstappen joining Mercedes is tantalizing, especially with Wolff reportedly eyeing the Dutch driver to bolster the team’s lineup.
This may be the reason that George Russell doesn’t have a contract for next year. – Jon Massengale on The Sportsnaut Interview
Despite the intrigue, Massengale cautions that Max Verstappen’s future is far from certain.
“There’s no guarantee here,” he warned, pointing out Verstappen’s hints at retiring. “Let’s not forget that Max has dropped the hints at retiring. He’s got four championships under his belt. I mean, the guy could walk away from the sport and be one of the greatest of all time right now.”
Max Verstappen’s passion for sports car racing, evidenced by his testing just “the day after the race,” adds fuel to this theory, as he skipped the F1 movie premiere to pursue it.
Despite the speculation, Massengale believes one outcome remains most probable.
“The most likely thing is that he end up with Red Bull again,” he said.
As the 2026 season looms, Verstappen’s next move—whether to Mercedes, retirement, or staying put—will keep F1 fans on edge.
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