Lewis Hamilton made some surprising remarks during the British Grand Prix weekend at Silverstone. Despite being long-time rivals, the seven-time world champion openly praised his former team, Mercedes, and even suggested that Max Verstappen should consider joining them if he ever decided to part ways with Red Bull Racing.
Lewis Hamilton, who raced with Mercedes from 2013 until the end of the 2024 season, emphasized the exceptional quality of the team based in Brackley, describing it as a truly outstanding organisation. His remarks came at a time when speculation about Max Verstappen’s future is intensifying, especially amid growing internal tension and political uncertainty within the Red Bull camp.
Hamilton: “Mercedes is an extraordinary team”
When asked by the media whether he would recommend Mercedes to other drivers, Lewis Hamilton responded without hesitation: “If someone were to ask me for advice, I would absolutely recommend Mercedes. It’s an extraordinary team, filled with amazing people, incredible passion, a fantastic working environment, and an outstanding factory. The culture and values of that team are truly special.”
The British driver also admitted to a past regret: “Many years ago, I said that Red Bull was just an energy drink company, but I regret saying that now. I only said it to motivate my team. In reality, Red Bull has proven to be an incredible force and has dominated Formula 1 for many years.”
Lewis Hamilton’s unexpected endorsement of his former team came just as questions surrounding Max Verstappen’s long-term future continued to swirl. The Dutchman, a four-time world champion and current driver of car number 1 for Red Bull Racing, has been at the centre of numerous rumors linking him to a possible switch to Mercedes in the near future.
These rumors have been fueled by Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff’s repeated public declarations of interest, as well as growing signs of instability within Red Bull Racing following recent internal conflicts and management changes.
During the media day at Silverstone, Max Verstappen refused to provide clarity on his future plans. When asked directly why his management team had reportedly been in contact with Mercedes, Verstappen replied curtly: “I have nothing to add.”
As for the 2026 season, which will mark the start of Formula 1’s new engine regulations and a fresh competitive era, the Dutch driver remained non-committal: “I’m only focused on what lies ahead and on continuing my work with the team.”
Verstappen-Mercedes saga continues as Hamilton hopes to improve with Ferrari
The ongoing speculation around Max Verstappen’s future continues to gain momentum as the 2025 season progresses. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton—already looking ahead to the 2026 Formula 1 season with Ferrari—has shown no hesitation in publicly acknowledging the strength of the Mercedes team, and his own history with them.
Hamilton’s comments may not only reflect his fond memories of an ultra-successful decade with Mercedes but could also be interpreted as a subtle encouragement for Verstappen to consider a sensational move to Brackley. Such a move would mark one of the most shocking driver transfers in modern Formula 1 history, bringing together two fierce competitors under the same banner.
Whether Verstappen stays loyal to Red Bull Racing or decides to explore new horizons remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: Lewis Hamilton sees no better place for him than Mercedes.
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