Will Max Verstappen and George Russell swap steering wheels in 2026? A new rumor is already starting to shake F1.
As the 2024 Formula 1 season draws to a close, the first rumors for 2026 are starting to shake up the paddock. Among the scenarios mentioned, a potential exchange of seats between Max Verstappen and George Russell is causing a lot of noise. This transfer could reshape the balance of power at the top of the championship.
Verstappen: an uncertain future at Red Bull
Max Verstappen, now four-time world champion, is undeniably the pillar of Red Bull's success. However, doubts persist about his long-term commitment to the Austrian team. The Dutchman has an exit clause which could allow him to leave before 2026, a year marked by the introduction of new technical regulations.
Although he has renewed his confidence in Red Bull for the coming seasons, rumors suggest growing interest in a challenge at Mercedes. Toto Wolff, director of the German team, has often expressed his admiration for Verstappen and could offer him a place of choice, especially if Lewis Hamilton were to leave the grid.
George Russell, an asset coveted by Red Bull
For his part, George Russell was able to win at Mercedes in 2024, ahead of Lewis Hamilton in points and multiplying remarkable performances. However, the arrival of promising talents like Kimi Antonelli, a young prospect signed long-term by Mercedes, could threaten his position after 2025, the end date of his current contract.
Red Bull boss Christian Horner has already expressed his interest in the Briton. With three victories, including a brilliant one in Las Vegas, Russell embodies a serious option to replace Verstappen if he decides to leave.
An exchange that would upset the hierarchy
Such a move could profoundly affect both teams. For Mercedes, attracting Verstappen would mean maintaining its competitiveness at the highest level. On the other hand, Red Bull could entrust leadership to Russell, with a teammate like Yuki Tsunoda or Liam Lawson to complete the team.
These speculations take place in a context where pilot contracts are increasingly flexible. The recent example of Sergio Pérez at Red Bull shows how much performance dictates decisions in this sport.
A historic rivalry that could intensify
The tensions between Verstappen and Russell are not new. Their altercation at the end of the 2024 season, followed by a tense exchange between Toto Wolff and Christian Horner, illustrates an underlying rivalry. If the two drivers swap seats, their dynamic could take a dramatic turn, adding a new layer of drama to Formula 1.
