Ferrari linked to Max Verstappen in intriguing long-term transfer scenario. F1 driver market awaits Max Verstappen as stunning Ferrari switch is proposed for 2028.

Waiting for Max

During the Barcelona Grand Prix weekend, the first concrete driver market rumors regarding next year began to surface in the F1 paddock. While a few movements already seem to be underway, the true definitive domino piece that could trigger a massive chain reaction of grid-wide moves is Max Verstappen. As reported by De Telegraaf’s Dutch journalist Erik van Haren, it remains unclear whether the four-time world champion will stay with Red Bull for 2027 or choose to trigger his exit clause. Everyone is waiting for his decision, because an unexpected switch from the Dutch driver would create a massive shockwave felt across the entire grid.

Naturally, the future of Red Bull’s current star is a central topic of discussion in the Netherlands, where every single aspect of Verstappen’s racing career is thoroughly analyzed. According to van Haren, the upcoming Austrian GP weekend could mark a critical turning point in Max’s decision-making process. Privately, Verstappen has reportedly offered no reassurances to Red Bull management. “He has not indicated internally that his seat is secure,” van Haren noted regarding the recent dialogue between Verstappen and Red Bull leadership. “The weekend in Austria will be very important. They want to shed weight from the car, and that will be absolutely critical.”

Silver or Red

Speaking on the Pit Talk podcast, former F1 driver Robert Doornbos explained that, in his view, a move to Mercedes remains the most obvious solution. However, another former Dutch F1 driver, Christijan Albers, shared a completely different and fascinating perspective with De Telegraaf: “Jos Verstappen might not agree with me,” Christijan Albers stated, “but if I were Max, I would drive for Red Bull for one more year and then go to Ferrari in 2028, following in the footsteps of Michael Schumacher, the greatest.” While it is a captivating scenario, it currently looks highly complex to execute given the contract situations of the Scuderia’s current drivers in Maranello.

Max Verstappen’s future therefore remains the focal point of the Formula 1 driver market, with pundits and former racers alike weighing whether his path lies with a steady Red Bull stay, a leap to Mercedes, or a legacy-defining move to Ferrari by 2028.