The Formula 1 world is in turmoil over persistent rumors about Max Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes in 2026. The four-time world champion, currently under contract with Red Bull Racing until 2028, has been linked with Toto Wolff’s team for months. While speculation about a move to the Silver Arrows is growing, there is growing resistance among Verstappen’s loyal fans to this potential move. Many fear that the Mercedes W16, the car that will race under new regulations in 2026, will not be able to live up to the high expectations of a driver of Verstappen’s caliber.

The rumor mill went into overdrive after a disappointing weekend for Verstappen at the Austrian Grand Prix. An early retirement and a lackluster performance from the Red Bull RB21 fueled speculation about his future. Italian media, including Sky Sports Italia, even reported that Verstappen had already reached a verbal agreement with Mercedes, with only the approval of the Mercedes board still pending. These reports have fueled the debate but have also caused unrest among fans who have supported Verstappen at Red Bull for years. The Dutchman has built an unparalleled record with the Milton Keynes-based team, with four world titles and 65 victories, making him the third-most successful driver in the sport’s history.

Fan skepticism stems primarily from Mercedes’ performance in recent seasons. Although the Brackley-based team dominated the hybrid era for years, it has struggled to regain its place among the absolute elite since 2022. The W16, which will debut in 2026 under the new regulations with 50% electric powertrains and sustainable fuels, is seen by many as an unknown quantity. Fans point out that Mercedes, despite its experience with rule changes, is not guaranteed to produce a winning car. Red Bull, on the other hand, has invested in its own Red Bull Powertrains with the help of Ford, and while there are doubts about the engine, the team’s chassis remains a strong asset. For many supporters, the risk of switching is too great, especially given Verstappen’s current success at Red Bull, where he still sits third in the championship despite a less successful car.

Moreover, loyalty plays a major role in fan resistance. Verstappen has been a figurehead for Red Bull since 2016, and his successes have brought the team global fame. Recent internal turmoil at Red Bull, with the departure of key figures like Adrian Newey and tensions surrounding team principal Christian Horner, has fueled speculation about a departure. Yet, many fans see Verstappen as the cornerstone of the team, and a move to Mercedes is seen by some as a betrayal of the team that made him great. There are also concerns about how Verstappen will perform in a team that may be more focused on developing young talent like Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who will drive alongside George Russell in 2025.

On the other hand, some fans understand Mercedes’ appeal. Toto Wolff has repeatedly stated that he sees Verstappen as the ideal successor to Lewis Hamilton, who has moved to Ferrari. Mercedes has a proven track record of taking advantage of new regulations, such as in 2014, when the team was unbeatable for years. Yet, the uncertainty surrounding the W16 remains a stumbling block. Fans wonder whether Verstappen, accustomed to a car built entirely around him, will thrive in a team that may be less focused on him. Moreover, some fear that a move would disrupt the dynamic within Mercedes, especially given the rivalry with Russell, who still needs to secure his own future at the team.

Verstappen himself remains restrained in his comments. During the British Grand Prix, he refused to fuel the rumors, emphasizing that his focus is on Red Bull’s performance in the upcoming races. However, he did hint at a decision around the summer break, which only heightens the tension. It remains an emotionally charged topic for fans. Many hope their hero stays loyal to Red Bull, where he achieved his greatest successes, while others fear a move to Mercedes will put him in a precarious position. Whatever the outcome, the Formula 1 world is holding its breath for what could become one of the most high-profile transfers in years.