The Formula 1 world is in turmoil following the news that four-time world champion Max Verstappen is leaving Red Bull Racing for a sensational move to Mercedes in 2026. The deal, reportedly worth €102 million, marks a turning point in the Dutchman’s career and was made possible by an escape clause in his Red Bull contract. Former Haas team principal Günther Steiner, a respected voice in the paddock, addressed the shocking transfer during an interview with TalkSPORT, offering both praise and warnings about Verstappen’s decision.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius has given the green light to buy out 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 won four world titles there, activated his clause after a disappointing 2025 season, in which Red Bull only finished fourth in the constructors’ championship. The RB21 car suffered from balance issues and understeer, something Verstappen repeatedly complained about, particularly during the British Grand Prix, where he only finished fifth. These disappointing performances, combined with the recent resignation of team principal Christian Horner, appear to have been the deciding factor in Verstappen’s departure.
Steiner, known for his direct analyses, acknowledged that Verstappen’s move carries risks. “Max is a smart guy, but this is a gamble,” he said. “Nobody knows how the new regulations will work out in 2026. Mercedes can be strong, but so can Red Bull. He’s leaving a team that made him great.” Steiner pointed to Verstappen’s unparalleled talent, which he demonstrated even in a lesser car, such as his pole position at Silverstone despite the problematic RB21. Nevertheless, he emphasized that in Verstappen, Mercedes is bringing in a driver who can win championships. “If you want the title, you take Max. His flaws? You accept those,” he added, referring to the sometimes tense dynamic surrounding ‘Team Verstappen’.
The move isn’t without controversy. Disappointment is widespread within Red Bull, especially after the departure of key figures like Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley. Laurent Mekies, Horner’s successor, faces a huge challenge in rebuilding the team. Meanwhile, speculation is rife about Verstappen’s new teammate at Mercedes. According to Sky Sports Italia, George Russell may be replaced by rookie Kimi Antonelli, leaving the British driver facing an uncertain future. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has remained mum, but insiders report he has been pursuing Verstappen for months. Sports marketer Bob van Oosterhout emphasized that this transfer is not only a sporting coup for Mercedes, but also a commercial one, given Verstappen’s global popularity.
The Dutchman himself remained reticent at Silverstone, saying, “I focus on winning, not on rumors.” However, he hinted at his motivations on social media: “I’m looking for an environment where I can fight for titles.” These words, along with the clause that freed him up after Red Bull’s disappointing performance, paved the way for the deal. According to F1 journalist Erik van Haren, who has close ties to the Verstappen camp, the driver will provide definitive clarity on his future before 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 have to get used to things,” he noted. He also pointed out the financial side: buying out Verstappen’s contract will cost Mercedes a fortune, but the potential to win titles and strengthen the brand with him justifies the investment. The Formula 1 community is eagerly anticipating 2026, when Verstappen will be driving the Silver Arrows. Will he lead Mercedes back to the top, or was his departure from Red Bull a hasty decision? Only time will tell, but for now, Verstappen’s transfer dominates the F1 news, with Steiner being one of the few courageous enough to highlight its complexities.
