Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has said Max Verstappen still intends to stay with the team for next year despite speculation about a move to Mercedes which would shake up Formula 1.

McLaren boss Zak Brown has admitted the prospect of Max Verstappen joining Mercedes is “scary”. Verstappen continues to be linked with a shock move to Mercedes for F1 2026 and reports ahead of the British Grand Prix have claimed that talks between the two camps have intensified, with the Dutchman said to be open to a switch.

Red Bull boss Christian Horner may have just dropped the most unexpected name yet in Formula 1’s swirling driver market drama. With Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull still the hottest topic in the paddock, especially as Mercedes continue to circle, Horner was asked directly if he had a “Plan B” in case the reigning champion decides to jump ship.