Eddie Jordan, the former Formula 1 team boss, is stirring the pot with some bold predictions about Max Verstappen’s racing future.
He claims that the atmosphere at Red Bull Racing has become tumultuous, fueled by significant departures such as the iconic designer Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley. According to Jordan, these changes could be unsettling for Verstappen and his father, Jos.
Jordan’s insights have sparked renewed rumors about Verstappen making a surprise switch to Mercedes. Despite being under contract with Red Bull until 2028, speculation continues about Verstappen’s interest in joining Mercedes, a team historically keen on securing his talent.
Jordan noted that Mercedes is experiencing a resurgence, having won three of the last four races. This uptick in performance, combined with an upcoming regulatory reset in 2026, positions Mercedes as an attractive option for Verstappen. The potential changes in car and power unit regulations could further lure the Dutch driver to the team.
During a recent interaction on the ‘Formula For Success’ podcast, Jordan hinted at strategic meetings between Toto Wolff, the head of Mercedes, and key figures like Jim Ratcliffe of INEOS and Mercedes executive Ola Källenius. These discussions reportedly focus on meeting the financial demands associated with signing a driver of Verstappen’s caliber.
Jordan also shared that Verstappen is aware of these deliberations, which suggests a level of interest or at least acknowledgment of the possibility of joining Mercedes. While it’s uncertain if Verstappen participated directly in these discussions, the commitment from the Mercedes team remains evident.
Currently, Verstappen is on track to secure his fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship, maintaining a strong lead over his competitors. However, as the 2026 season approaches and new developments unfold, the dynamics within Formula 1 could shift dramatically.
In the ever-evolving world of Formula 1, the possibility of Max Verstappen switching teams adds another layer of intrigue. Eddie Jordan’s predictions highlight the ongoing uncertainties and strategic moves shaping the sport’s future. While it’s impossible to predict with certainty, the potential for Verstappen to don Mercedes colors brings excitement and speculation to fans and analysts alike.
