Piastri Linked to Red Bull as Verstappen Successor

Rumors are intensifying in Formula 1 about a potential driver market shakeup, with McLaren's Oscar Piastri linked to Red Bull Racing as a possible successor to Max Verstappen, whose future at the team remains uncertain despite a contract through 2028.

Reports from German publication Auto Motor und Sport claim Verstappen's deal includes a performance clause allowing departure if he fails to finish at least second in the drivers' standings by July 1. The speculation has gained traction amid Red Bull's internal challenges, including the earlier Christian Horner investigation, the exits of designer Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, and Gianpiero Lambiase's planned move to McLaren. Insiders suggest talks between Verstappen and McLaren have begun, fueled by the Dutch driver's recent criticisms of the 2026 regulations and his focus on other racing commitments, such as a GT3 event at the Nurburgring.

Piastri, who signed a multi-year extension with McLaren last year keeping him through at least 2027, reportedly felt mistreated after narrowly losing the 2025 drivers' title to teammate Lando Norris. His manager, former Red Bull driver Mark Webber, maintains ties to the...