Zak Brown Reiterates 2025 Bet on Verstappen's F1 Future

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has doubled down on his 2025 prediction, stating he would still bet on Max Verstappen joining Mercedes if the reigning champion were to leave Red Bull after the 2026 season. Brown firmly shut down speculation about Verstappen moving to McLaren, emphasizing his complete satisfaction with the team's current driver lineup of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

Why it matters:

Brown's persistent prediction adds significant fuel to the ongoing speculation about the most coveted seat on the F1 grid. With Verstappen's long-term future at Red Bull increasingly questioned and Mercedes seeking a top-tier replacement for the departing Lewis Hamilton, Brown's external assessment highlights the intense behind-the-scenes maneuvering that will define the 2025-2026 driver market.

The details:

• In a 2025 interview, Brown first stated, "If I was betting, I’d bet on Merc" regarding a potential Verstappen move, a view he explicitly reaffirmed in recent comments to Sky Sports.
• Brown moved quickly to quash any rumors linking Verstappen to McLaren, calling Norris and Piastri "the greatest driver pairing on and off the track" and confirming the team has "no intention of replacing any of our two superstars."
• The Mercedes Seat: Brown's prediction hinges on the assumption a seat would be available. However, George Russell's recent comments complicate that narrative. When asked about performance clauses in his multi-year deal, Russell stated, "I will be here next year with the team and that's that," suggesting his position is secure for 2026.
• Verstappen's Stance: While not directly addressed by Brown, other reports suggest staying at Red Bull is currently a lower-ranked option for Verstappen compared to several other possibilities, keeping the driver market on high alert.

What's next:

The driver market for 2026 and beyond remains wide open, with Brown's comments serving as a prominent marker in the ongoing narrative.

• All eyes are on Mercedes to see if they will create an opening for a star like Verstappen, which would likely require a complex negotiation with the contracted George Russell.
• For McLaren, the focus remains firmly on Norris and Piastri, with Brown's definitive statement aiming to end speculation and provide stability for his team.
• The ultimate decision rests with Verstappen and Red Bull, whose partnership will be scrutinized more than ever throughout the 2025 season.