Verstappen in Advanced McLaren Talks Despite Red Bull Contract
Max Verstappen is in advanced negotiations to join McLaren from Red Bull, according to paddock sources, despite recent denials from McLaren CEO Zak Brown.
Speculation surrounding the driver market reached a peak on Monday following a social media frenzy. Broadcaster Will Buxton posted a message on X identical to the one he shared before Lewis Hamilton’s transfer to Ferrari was announced two years ago. The post triggered intense discussion among Formula 1 fans anticipating a major announcement regarding Verstappen.
Simultaneously, journalist Thomas Maher teased upcoming news on his own page using the hashtag #F1.
FWIW, I don't believe Buxton's tweet is about the same thing.
— Thomas Maher (@thomasmaheronf1) July 6, 2026
Maher later clarified his information was separate from Buxton’s impending reveal. Buxton eventually deflated the F1 suspense by announcing an IndyCar transfer, revealing that Scott Dixon is joining the Arrow McLaren team. Meanwhile, Maher, who works for PlanetF1, published the report detailing Verstappen’s potential switch to McLaren.
Escape clause and Red Bull tensions
The talks follow a rear wing failure on Verstappen’s car at Sunday’s British Grand Prix. The resulting failure to score points makes it mathematically impossible for the Dutch driver to secure a top-two position in the Drivers’ Championship before the summer break. This situation triggers an escape clause in his current contract, which runs until 2028, allowing him to explore options with other teams.
In June, Verstappen met with Red Bull shareholders Mark Mateschitz and Chalerm Yoovidhya in Austria. The team reportedly attempted to buy out his escape clause to secure his commitment until 2027. Verstappen refused the offer, a decision that has reportedly angered Red Bull management.
Internal relations at Red Bull have deteriorated following structural changes and high-profile staff departures. Following the dismissal of former team principal Christian Horner last year, several key figures have announced their exits. Paul Monaghan is on gardening leave ahead of a move to Cadillac. GianPiero Lambiase, the team’s head of racing and Verstappen’s race engineer, will also depart after this season to join McLaren.
These personnel shifts have influenced Verstappen’s stance. While Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff wants to retain the driver until 2030, Mateschitz is reportedly open to severing ties. A move to Mercedes is no longer an option as the team will retain George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.
Piastri’s future and McLaren appeal
At McLaren, Verstappen would likely replace Oscar Piastri. While Lando Norris’s seat is secure as the reigning world champion, Piastri has slipped to sixth in the standings. This drop makes him vulnerable to a performance clause despite his public confidence in his current contract. Sources suggest a three-year deal between Verstappen and McLaren is imminent.
McLaren offers Verstappen a competitive car and reunion opportunities with former Red Bull colleagues, including chief technical officer Rob Marshall and Lambiase. The manufacturer’s wider racing programmes could also provide Verstappen the chance to compete in World Endurance Championship hypercar events.
If the transfer proceeds, paddock sources indicate Piastri could finalise a straight swap to fill the vacant Red Bull seat.
