Verstappen’s response to media grilling on Mercedes rumors

Max Verstappen remained predictably guarded on Thursday at Silverstone amid mounting speculation linking him to a sensational move to Mercedes, choosing instead to reaffirm his loyalty to Red Bull and maintain focus on the current season.

As paddock chatter intensifies ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix, Verstappen refused to add fuel to the fire, despite suggestions from Italian media that “concrete negotiations” were ongoing between the Dutchman and Mercedes.

Speaking to reporters, a tight-lipped Verstappen made it clear he had nothing new to share since addressing the rumours last week in Austria.

“I have nothing else to add compared to what I said last week, to be honest,” he stated bluntly.

“Last week, we didn’t have a great result. I think it was not a great weekend, but also a bit unlucky in general.

“I don’t say, of course, that we would be challenging McLaren, but we could have had a decent result. And everything that I said that week is still the same. Nothing has changed from my side.”

Verstappen has endured a relatively underwhelming 2025 campaign by his own high standards, securing just two victories so far – both on weekends where his qualifying performance at Imola and Suzuka proved decisive.

In contrast, McLaren has surged ahead in both championships, leaving Verstappen and Red Bull playing catch-up.

Focused on the Present

The speculation surrounding Verstappen’s future has inevitably been amplified by Red Bull’s ongoing struggles with car balance and the looming regulation overhaul in 2026.

However, when asked if moving teams under the new rules could be risky, Verstappen pointed to the security of his current arrangement.

“That’s why I’m contracted to Red Bull,” he said.

When pressed further on whether his contract contains any exit clauses, Verstappen shut the door firmly: “I’m not speaking about my contract.”

Still, questions about his long-term loyalty to Red Bull continued, prompting Verstappen to clarify his mindset – one rooted in the present rather than hypothetical futures.

“There is no decision at the moment; for me, it’s not about 26 or whatever. I just focus on what I have ahead of me, work with the team,” he added.

“Of course, a lot of people make up assumptions, but that’s not me.”

Read also:

• Russell on Verstappen rumors: ‘I don’t think I’ll be going anywhere'

And when asked point-blank whether he would still be racing for Red Bull in 2026, Verstappen kept to his rehearsed stance.

“Like I said last week, that’s all that I have to say about it.”

With his answers deliberately restrained, Verstappen appears keen to avoid being drawn into contract theatrics – at least publicly.

Whether his silence masks serious contemplation or simply a desire to avoid distraction remains to be seen. For now, the Dutchman insists his commitment lies firmly with Red Bull Racing.

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