The Formula 1 paddock has been buzzing with speculation about Max Verstappen’s future for months. As Red Bull struggles to match Mercedes’ pace in 2026, rumors have swirled that the Dutch driver might be eyeing a move to Brackley. But according to former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner, that ship may have already sailed.
In a recent interview, Steiner suggested that Mercedes no longer needs to chase Verstappen because they have already found their next superstar in Kimi Antonelli. The young Italian, who has been part of Mercedes’ junior program since his karting days, is widely considered one of the most exciting prospects in the sport. Steiner’s comments add a new dimension to the ongoing narrative about Verstappen’s future and Mercedes’ long-term plans.
The Verstappen Saga
Max Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull runs through the end of the 2028 season, but that hasn’t stopped the rumor mill. With Red Bull’s dominance fading in 2026, many have speculated that Verstappen might seek a way out. Mercedes, with its history of success and a potential opening alongside George Russell, has often been mentioned as a likely destination.
However, Steiner believes that Mercedes’ perspective has shifted. "They don’t need Max anymore," he said. "They have Kimi. He is the next Max Verstappen." This bold statement reflects the high regard in which Antonelli is held within the paddock.
Kimi Antonelli: The Rising Star
Kimi Antonelli has been making waves in the junior categories. After winning the Formula Regional European Championship and impressing in Formula 2, he has been tipped for a future F1 seat. Mercedes has nurtured him carefully, giving him testing opportunities and preparing him for the step up.
Antonelli’s driving style has drawn comparisons to Verstappen—aggressive, fearless, and incredibly fast. His ability to extract performance from any car has caught the eye of many, including Steiner. "Kimi has that same hunger and raw speed," Steiner noted. "Mercedes knows what they have."
The timing of Steiner’s comments is significant. With the 2026 season underway, Mercedes is leading the constructors’ championship, and Antonelli is already being groomed for a race seat. Some reports suggest he could replace Lewis Hamilton, who is in the final years of his career, or even partner Russell in a blockbuster lineup.
Red Bull’s Struggles
Meanwhile, Red Bull is facing its own challenges. The team that dominated the ground-effect era is now playing catch-up. Engine reliability issues and aerodynamic problems have hampered their 2026 campaign, leaving Verstappen frustrated. The Dutchman has always been loyal to Red Bull, but even he has hinted at impatience.
Verstappen’s future is a hot topic, but Steiner’s comments suggest that Mercedes is no longer an interested party. This could force Red Bull to double down on retaining their star driver, or perhaps Verstappen will look elsewhere. Other teams like Aston Martin and Audi have also been linked, but nothing concrete has emerged.
What Does This Mean for F1?
If Steiner is right, Mercedes’ decision to invest in youth over experience could signal a shift in the sport’s power dynamics. The idea of a young driver like Antonelli leading a top team is exciting for fans and could usher in a new era of competition.
For Verstappen, the situation is more complex. He remains one of the greatest talents of his generation, but if Mercedes is no longer an option, his choices are limited. Red Bull is still a competitive team, and Verstappen has a strong bond with his engineers and mechanics. It’s possible he will stay put and fight to restore Red Bull’s dominance.
Steiner’s comments also highlight the importance of driver development programs. Mercedes’ investment in Antonelli is paying off, and it could serve as a model for other teams. The days of buying proven champions might be giving way to nurturing homegrown talent.
Conclusion
While Guenther Steiner’s opinion is just one voice in the paddock, it carries weight given his experience as a team principal. His assertion that Mercedes has moved on from Verstappen is a bold claim, but it aligns with the team’s recent focus on youth. As the 2026 season progresses, all eyes will be on Antonelli and Verstappen to see how their careers unfold.
For now, the rumor mill will continue to churn, but one thing is clear: Mercedes believes it has found its future in Kimi Antonelli. Whether that means Verstappen will stay at Red Bull or seek a new challenge remains to be seen. But the landscape of F1 is changing, and Steiner’s words may prove to be a turning point in the narrative.
