Verstappen's actions defended by Doornbos amid accusations from Mercedes following the 'headless chicken' remark.
There was significant speculation surrounding Max Verstappen's team for the 2026 Formula 1 season, with strong rumours suggesting a potential move to Mercedes. This speculation was fuelled by an exit clause in Verstappen's Red Bull contract and active conversations between Toto Wolff, Mercedes team principal, and Verstappen's management.
However, Verstappen put an end to the rumours before the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix, announcing that he would remain with Red Bull for the 2026 season. The speculation ended as Verstappen did not meet the conditions to activate the exit clause, as he was positioned well enough in the championship standings by the summer break.
Robert Doornbos, a former F1 driver and current analyst, was convinced that Verstappen would join Mercedes. Doornbos built his analysis on the connections he has made in Formula 1 over the past twenty years and his close proximity to the action. However, his claims proved to be untrue, and he faced criticism on social media for his false predictions.
Jos Verstappen, Max's father, criticised Doornbos's statements, calling them "headless chicken" talk. Verstappen himself confirmed his decision to stay at Red Bull, stating that he had been focusing on improving Red Bull's performance and discussing future ideas with the team.
Toto Wolff made extensive efforts to try and convince Max Verstappen to join Mercedes, but the Dutch driver remained loyal to Red Bull. Doornbos, since defending himself, stated that as an analyst, he can't always predict accurately.
In summary, the speculation was driven by contractual and competitive factors, Mercedes' pursuit, and Doornbos's conviction. However, Verstappen ultimately decided to stay at Red Bull, ending the rumours and putting an end to the speculation.
[1] PlanetF1.com, Max Verstappen confirms Red Bull stay for 2026 F1 season, 2025-07-28. [Online]. Available: https://www.planetf1.com/news/max-verstappen-confirms-red-bull-stay-for-2026-f1-season/ [Accessed 2025-08-01].
[2] Autosport.com, Max Verstappen confirms Red Bull stay for 2026 F1 season, 2025-07-28. [Online]. Available: https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/max-verstappen-confirms-red-bull-stay-for-2026-f1-season/6071666 [Accessed 2025-08-01].
[3] Motorsport.com, Max Verstappen: I'm happy to stay at Red Bull, 2025-07-28. [Online]. Available: https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/max-verstappen-im-happy-to-stay-at-red-bull/6071661/ [Accessed 2025-08-01].
[4] Grandpx.news, Max Verstappen confirms Red Bull stay for 2026 F1 season, 2025-07-28. [Online]. Available: https://grandprixnews.com/f1/news/max-verstappen-confirms-red-bull-stay-for-2026-f1-season/ [Accessed 2025-08-01].
[5] BBC Sport, Toto Wolff: Mercedes in talks with Max Verstappen, 2025-07-26. [Online]. Available: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/62546366 [Accessed 2025-08-01].
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