Mercedes Chief makes SHOCKING statement over the team’s interest in poaching Max Verstappen in 2026

Mercedes communications director Bradley Lord confirmed the team's desire to acquire Max Verstappen by 2026.

Mercedes Chief makes SHOCKING statement over the team’s interest in poaching Max Verstappen in 2026

Max Verstappen (via IMAGO) Mercedes logo (via Mercedes)

Lewis Hamilton‘s move to Ferrari had created a vacancy at Mercedes that many drivers were eager to fill. Team principal Toto Wolff took his time in deciding Hamilton’s replacement before finally signing the young Andrea Kimi Antonelli for 2025. However, he made multiple attempts to poach Max Verstappen from Red Bull, which proved fruitless in the end.

Mercedes communications director Bradley Lord backed Toto Wolff‘s desire to sign Max Verstappen from Red Bull. He noted that the team is attempting to bring the Dutchman to Mercedes by the 2026 season. The new regulations might witness an upturn in performance for the German-based constructor.

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We're aiming to bring Max Verstappen to Mercedes in 2026. That’s no secret.
Bradley Lord told orf.at

Verstappen had previously claimed that ‘not even a $250 Million offer’ would see him leave Red Bull and join Mercedes. However, multiple issues at Red Bull this season have made Wolff believe that the three-time F1 champion would reconsider his decision. Verstappen’s current Red Bull contract ties him to the team until the end of the 2028 season.

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Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Mercedes to ‘continue’ with the same lineup if Max Verstappen doesn’t join the team by 2026

Lead driver George Russell and Kimi Antonelli are reportedly due to extend their partnership to 2026 if Max Verstappen decides not to join Mercedes. This has been confirmed by Bradley Lord.

Toto Wolff, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli (via Formula1.com)
Toto Wolff, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli (via Formula1.com)
They’ll be focused on making their mark next year. But if Max doesn’t join, we’re certainly keen to continue with the same lineup!
Bradley Lord expressed
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The 2024 season has posed a highly interesting situation for Mercedes after their recent upturn in performance. The team could move up the table amidst Red Bull’s struggles. Hence, time will tell if Verstappen believes Brackley to be a better option than his current prospects at Red Bull.