Jos Verstappen’s Handshake Deal with Mercedes: Will Max Switch Teams in 2026?

Jos Verstappen is said to have made a "handshake agreement" regarding Max's 2026 drive

Max Verstappen's future in Formula 1 is reportedly being negotiated by his father

According to reports from German media, there are discussions involving Max Verstappen's father about the possibility of Verstappen joining Mercedes in the future.

For months, there has been ongoing speculation about where Verstappen will be racing in the future, following an internal conflict at Red Bull that included Christian Horner, Helmut Marko, and Verstappen's father, Jos Verstappen.

Adding to the F1 champion’s difficulties is the reduced performance of his RB20.

According to F1-Insider, his father intends to bring him to Mercedes in 2026.

They claim that Jos Verstappen and Toto Wolff have an unwritten agreement.

This suggests that Verstappen's team is confident that Mercedes will come out on top with the most powerful engine under the new regulations.

Mercedes has announced that Kimi Antonelli will take over from Lewis Hamilton, joining George Russell, for the 2025 season.

Team principal Wolff has affirmed that Russell and Antonelli are his top picks for the future.

It is still uncertain if Verstappen, who is currently available, will reconsider his decision.

Aston Martin as a possibility?

“Adrian Newey is actively pursuing Verstappen,” reported F1-Insider.

In the beginning of next year, Red Bull will see their talented car designer move to Aston Martin.

Newey will consequently have the opportunity to shape the development of Aston Martin's 2026 vehicle, which will be the inaugural model under the new regulations.

According to the report, Verstappen appears less enthusiastic about the idea of joining Aston Martin.

According to a report by F1-Insider, his "once ideal marriage" with Red Bull is now experiencing significant difficulties.

"They note that Red Bull's decline is becoming increasingly apparent."

Max Verstappen is signed with Red Bull until 2028, but the team will need to provide a quicker car to ensure he remains with them.

This weekend, as he heads into the F1 Singapore Grand Prix, he hasn't secured a victory in the last seven races, and Lando Norris is posing a significant challenge to his top position in the drivers’ standings.

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