David Coulthard: Ferrari, Not Mercedes, Would Be a Better Fit for Max Verstappen

David Coulthard believes Max Verstappen should look to Ferrari rather than Mercedes if he ever decides to leave Red Bull. The former driver says the Dutchman's personality and approach would be a more natural fit at Maranello, even as Verstappen continues to race a Mercedes in GT3 events.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's future remains a hot topic despite his long-term Red Bull contract. With Mercedes, Aston Martin, and McLaren all linked to the four-time world champion, Coulthard's endorsement of Ferrari adds a new dimension—especially given the Scuderia's current stability with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.

The details:

• Coulthard told Up To Speed that Verstappen's 'freedom to be Max' would be more comfortable at Ferrari. 'You would just turn up, drive quickly, presumably win the races and then head home,' he said.
• Verstappen has been linked to Mercedes for years, with Toto Wolff openly courting him. But Coulthard dismisses that as a poor cultural fit compared to the 'shoo-in' of Ferrari.
• The 28-year-old's recent GT3 racing with a Mercedes hasn't swayed Coulthard, who sees Ferrari's mystique as a better match for Verstappen's unapologetic style.
• Meanwhile, Red Bull's performance uptick in Miami—after a rocky start to 2026—has Naomi Schiff and others suggesting Verstappen may not want to leave at all. 'He doesn't have any desire to leave if things are going well,' she noted.
• Ferrari's current lineup includes Hamilton (with a reported option for a third season) and Leclerc (under contract through 2027). A Verstappen move would require major shuffling.

What's next:

Verstappen's contract with Red Bull runs through 2028, but the rumor mill keeps churning. Coulthard's comments add weight to the idea that Ferrari could be a realistic destination—if not now, then when the musical chairs begin. For now, Red Bull's trajectory will likely determine whether the Dutchman even considers leaving.