The Formula 1 world is in turmoil following the announcement that four-time world champion Max Verstappen is leaving Red Bull Racing for a sensational move to Mercedes in 2026. The deal, worth €102 million, marked a turning point in the Dutchman’s career and was made possible by a termination clause in his Red Bull contract. Former Haas team principal and respected paddock figure Günther Steiner reflected on the surprising decision in an interview with Talksport, acknowledging both the praise and the warnings surrounding Verstappen’s decision.
According to La Gazzetta Dello Sport, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius has greenlit Verstappen’s contract, an unprecedented financial move that will go down in Formula 1 history. Verstappen, who has driven for Red Bull since 2016 and has won four world titles, activated his release clause after a disappointing 2025 season, in which Red Bull only finished fourth in the constructors’ championship. The RB21 suffered from balance and understeer issues, prompting Verstappen to complain several times, including during the British Grand Prix, where he only finished fifth. These disappointing results, combined with the recent resignation of team principal Christian Horner, appear to have paved the way for Verstappen’s departure.
Steiner, known for his straightforward analyses, acknowledged the risks inherent in Verstappen’s decision. “Max is slim, but it’s a risky gamble,” he said. “Nobody knows what the new regulations will be in 2026. Mercedes may be strong, but so is Red Bull. He left behind a team that made him famous.” Steiner downplayed Verstappen’s unparalleled talent, which he demonstrated even in a less capable car, such as his pole position at Silverstone despite the troubled RB21. However, he denied that Mercedes had acquired a driver capable of winning this championship in Verstappen. “If you want the title, do you accept his negative points? Accept them immediately,” he explained, clarifying the sometimes tense dynamic surrounding “Team Verstappen.”
This change is not without controversy. There is great disappointment at Red Bull, especially after the departure of key figures such as Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley. Laurent Mekies, Horner’s successor, poses a major challenge to the team’s rebuilding. Meanwhile, there is intense speculation about Verstappen’s new teammate at Mercedes. According to Sky Sports Italia, George Russell could be replaced by rookie Kimi Antonelli, casting doubt on the British driver’s future. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has remained silent, but inside sources report that he has been monitoring Verstappen for months. Sports marketing expert Bob van Oosterhout suggests that Mercedes is making a change not only for functional reasons, but also for potential reasons, given Verstappen’s global popularity.
The Dutchman himself remained cautious at Silverstone, where he spread: “I focus on the rumors, not on them.” However, he hinted at his reduction on social media: “I’m looking for an environment where I can compete for the title.” These words, along with the release clause following Red Bull’s disappointing performance, paved the way for the agreement. According to Formula 1 journalist Erik van Haren, who has close ties to Verstappen’s camp, the driver will make his future definitive during the Hungarian Grand Prix on August 3.
Steiner, however, warned of the cultural differences between Red Bull and Mercedes. “Red Bull is a family, Mercedes is a factory. Max will inevitably have to learn,” he implies. He also considered the financial aspect: taking over Verstappen’s contract would cost Mercedes a fortune, but the potential to win titles with him and strengthen the brand justifies the investment. The Formula 1 community is eagerly anticipating 2026, when Verstappen will drive the Silver Arrows. Will he lead Mercedes back to the top, or was his departure from Red Bull a hasty decision? Time will tell, but for now, Verstappen’s move dominates the F1 news, and Steiner is one of the few brave enough to assume the enormous conviction.
