Saudi GP Rumors: Verstappen Might Move to Mercedes
Ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2024, rumors have been circulating that three-time F1 world champion and Red Bull's Max Verstappen might move to Mercedes.
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The rumors arose after Verstappen's father Jos Verstappen claimed that Red Bull was endangered if the team's current principal Christian Horner remained in his position.
Verstappen senior said, "The team is in danger of being torn apart. It can't go on the way it is. It will explode."
A Red Bull spokesperson countered the statement by emphasizing that the team is "united and we are focused on racing".
The rumors were strengthened by the fact that Mercedes still has a vacancy next to George Russell since Lewis Hamilton is moving to Ferrari in 2025.
When asked about Verstappen replacing him during media day on Wednesday in Jeddah, the seven-time world champion said, "I think my move has shown anything's possible."
Hamilton added, "I'm sure Max is on the list. But I'm pretty sure he's tied up and also I couldn't see why you would leave a car that's that good."
Verstappen himself emphasized the fact that there was no plan of leaving Red Bull when talking to written media.
He said, "The intention is of course absolutely to stay with this team because I really enjoy it and I'm also really happy within the team."
However, the three-time F1 world champion also cited Lewis' switch to Ferrari and said, "The thing is, no one would have seen Lewis moving to Ferrari....you never know what happens or what comes to you."
Despite the ambiguity about his future, Verstappen reinforced, "I'm very happy at the team, the performance is there, there's no reason to leave."
Hamilton's teammate, George Russell responded to the speculations by saying, "If any team had the chance to sign Max they'd 100 per cent be taking it."
Another F1 driver who has been linked in rumors to both Mercedes and Red Bull is Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso, however, his response to queries did not reveal much.
He said, "I don't have any contract at the moment so it's better to be on those lists or other lists or being on the retirement [list]."
The practice sessions for the Saudi GP 2024 begin on Thursday, Mar. 7, while the final race will take place on Saturday, Mar. 9.
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