The Formula 1 driver market could be completely flipped on its head for 2026 with a few key players yet to make decisions on their future.
Exceptionally for a top team, Mercedes have no drivers tied down heading into the 2026 F1 regulations and a new dawn for the sport.
Both George Russell and Kimi Antonelli’s contracts expire at the end of the current campaign, giving the team time to assess their performance.
Current boss Toto Wolff is a savvy negotiator and may be on the market to replace Lewis Hamilton after he departed to join Ferrari.
Wolff made one Max Verstappen promise to Hamilton before his exit and swore not to negotiate with the Dutchman while he was still at the German manufacturer.
Verstappen could ditch Red Bull for Mercedes in 2026 if his current team continues to struggle to develop their car and compete at the front. It would transform the Formula 1 driver market.
READ MORE: Toto Wolff explains why Max Verstappen decided against signing for Mercedes for the 2025 F1 season
Toto Wolff waiting on Max Verstappen’s Red Bull ‘summer clauses’ before 2026 Mercedes decision
Verstappen could join Aston Martin in 2026 if he wants to reunite with ex-colleague Adrian Newey and current partner Honda.
His next choice depends on who is likely to be in the best position to enjoy long-term success at the top of the sport.
ESPN’s Nate Saunders reports that the reason Russell’s Mercedes future has not been sorted yet may be because Wolff is waiting until the summer to see if Verstappen becomes available.
“He’s waiting until the summer break which is when we think that maybe Max has some performance clauses that he might be able to exercise.
“I think he’s going to be lower in the championship than third, maybe fourth. Very interesting one to monitor at least, and definitely Mercedes are doing that.”
READ MORE: How Aston Martin feel about Fernando Alonso’s immediate Formula 1 future amid Max Verstappen interest
Why the 2025 Formula 1 title race is far more important for Red Bull than anyone else
Not only are Red Bull keen to make Verstappen the second driver in history to win five consecutive drivers’ championships, but they want to carry some momentum into 2026.
Performing poorly in 2025 would stall their momentum, and could take away a lot of the feel-good factor within the team.
It may also convince Verstappen that his future lies elsewhere. Considering their predicament with the second car, it could end up being a disaster for them.
Without the Dutchman’s miracle-like work, they would be no more than a midfield team this year. It would be a major dent to their operation.
On the other hand, it would be a massive coup for whichever rival is able to secure his signature and could change the course of the future for one lucky team.
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