Zak Brown downplays Verstappen to McLaren, suggests Mercedes as alternative
McLaren boss Zak Brown says the team is happy with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, sees no need to replace them, and downplays any link to Verstappen, hinting the Dutch star may end up at Mercedes.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown has brushed aside rumours that Max Verstappen will follow race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase to the team, insisting the British outfit is satisfied with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri and sees no need for a driver swap.
Why it matters:
- If Verstappen moved to McLaren it would lift a midfield team, but a shift to Mercedes would further deepen the front‑row battle and could reshape the 2026 title fight.
The details:
- Brown said Norris and Piastri are on long‑term deals, calling them the best driver pairing on‑ and off‑track.
- He added Verstappen would be an attractive option only if a seat opened, but expects no such vacancy, and bets the Dutchman would most likely end up at Mercedes.
- Verstappen, ninth in the standings after three races, has hinted he may quit if the 2026 rule changes don’t bring enjoyment; his Red Bull deal runs to 2028 with a performance‑linked exit clause.
What's next:
- Lambiase will arrive at McLaren by 2028, allowing the team to benefit from his expertise while keeping Norris and Piastri in place.
- Mercedes’ early dominance makes them the most likely destination for Verstappen, but any move would still need Red Bull’s approval.
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