Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has been told he would be "crazy to say no" to the opportunity to sign Max Verstappen. The four-time world champion has been linked with a move to Mercedes for some time, with Wolff previously admitting his interest in the Dutchman.
Verstappen's contract clause
Verstappen chose to remain with Red Bull last year, but a clause in his contract, which extends through 2028, could allow him to leave for 2027. This clause is active because he is not in the top two of the drivers' championship as of the summer break.
Wolff recently indicated that Mercedes is set for 2027, with Kimi Antonelli impressing as a teenager and George Russell securing his seat. However, he told Sky Germany that he "wouldn't shy away from having Max and Kimi in the team together at some point."
Herbert's verdict
Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert believes Wolff should not pass up the chance to sign Verstappen. "I still don't think Mercedes are out of the running for Max," Herbert told Casinostugan. "George unfortunately has not quite been able to attack for the championship in the manner many of us expected, which means that there is that weaker second seat potentially available down the line."
Herbert added: "Would you say no to Max? I think in many respects you'd be crazy to say no, because I think it would only make Mercedes stronger as a team. Does it bring a few difficulties into the mix? Maybe. But Toto has been through that with Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, for example. So, he has experienced it before. And I don't think the rivalry between Max and Kimi would be as intense."
He continued: "Max is a much mature Max than he was before. He is now a family man, and maybe he sees things in a very slightly different way? But would he love the challenge of Kimi? Absolutely. And I think would Toto too, especially if Antonelli actually beat Max."
Verstappen's options
For now, Verstappen is likely to stay with Red Bull for another year, with limited alternatives. Mercedes and Ferrari have confirmed their driver line-ups, while McLaren has been mentioned as a possible destination, though the team is content with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.
Herbert sees a potential move to McLaren, especially with Verstappen's long-time race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, heading there. "Gianpiero Lambiase, with whom he has such a wonderful relationship, is obviously going to the Papaya. And maybe that's a relationship Max would ultimately want to continue with?"
