McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has suggested that Max Verstappen could join Mercedes as early as 2026, claiming truth in the rumours by saying he believes "when there's smoke, there's fire".
Speaking to Sky Sports News ahead of the British Grand Prix, Brown addressed the intense speculation surrounding Verstappen's future.
The McLaren boss indicated that ongoing discussions were likely taking place behind the scenes.
"I don't think that is out of the question," Brown said when asked about a potential 2026 move. "I think I'd rather see Max in a Red Bull at the moment than in a Mercedes, because he's doing an unbelievable job, of course."
McLaren boss Zak Brown made his feelings clear on the Max Verstappen rumours
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Brown delivered a scathing assessment of Red Bull's current form, suggesting the team would struggle without their star driver.
"They would probably be behind AlphaTauri (Racing Bulls)," Brown stated when asked where Red Bull would be without Verstappen. "They've done a great job and got a great racing car. Max is carrying them at the moment."
Red Bull's difficult 2025 campaign has seen them fall behind in the Constructors' Championship, trailing third-placed Mercedes by 47 points.
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McLaren's Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are currently ahead of Max Verstappen in the Drivers' Championship
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The team's struggles have coincided with significant departures, including technical chief Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley.
Yuki Tsunoda has managed just three top-10 finishes this season, highlighting the team's reliance on Verstappen's performances.
Brown addressed the mounting speculation directly, suggesting that the persistent rumours indicated genuine negotiations were underway.
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He boldly claimed: "You're never totally sure but I am a believer of where there's smoke, there's fire.
"If everyone was committed to their seats for next year, that's what everyone would be saying.
"The fact everyone is talking. Nobody has confirmed anything so that tells me conversations are going on. I wouldn't be surprised to see Max in a Mercedes.
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Zak Brown believes 'where there's smoke, there's fire'
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"This is what F1 is about. It's always exciting. Stay tuned. There might be another chapter to this story."
Verstappen's title rival Lando Norris struck a markedly different tone when questioned about the world champion's potential move.
"No, I don't really care, to be honest," Norris told Sky Sports F1. "I don't care where he goes, but I appreciate Max as a competitor, and I get tough... but I do enjoy our battles together."
The British driver, whose McLaren team currently leads the Constructors' Championship, remained diplomatic about Verstappen's future plans.
"Like he said, he's the boss of where he decides to go, and then he'll decide to go wherever he thinks is best."
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