As Red Bull boss Christian Horner continues to make clear, Verstappen is under contract with the team through 2028. This allows Horner to dismiss the discussion around a potential Verstappen move as noise, as he did during the Austrian Grand Prix. However, as this former lawyer will tell you, there is always a way out.

Reigning four-time Formula One champion Max Verstappen is reportedly considering changing teams for the 2026 season.

With the Mercedes and Max Verstappen flirtation continuing, the impact such a partnership could have would be seismic in Formula 1. Here’s a delve into the factors in play