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Max Verstappen in final talks with McLaren amid Red Bull tensions

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 7, 2026, 3:00 PM

Last updated Jul 7, 2026

Max Verstappen in final talks with McLaren amid Red Bull tensions

Summary

Max Verstappen is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations with McLaren for a potential contract as tensions rise within Red Bull Racing. Internal divisions have emerged, with Red Bull owner Mark Mateschitz expressing frustration at Verstappen's indecision, while CEO Oliver Mintzlaff aims to retain the champion driver. Despite public denials from McLaren CEO Zak Brown regarding changes to the driver lineup, sources indicate that the team is considering signing Verstappen. Should this transition occur, Oscar Piastri may be forced to leave McLaren and could end up at Red Bull, marking a significant shift in the Formula 1.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

What We Know

•Verstappen and McLaren are nearing a contract agreement.
•Red Bull is experiencing internal conflicts over Verstappen's future.
•McLaren publicly denies changes but sources suggest otherwise.
•Piastri's position at McLaren could be jeopardized by Verstappen's arrival.
•Negotiations could reshape the driver market in Formula 1.

Latest Updates

3:00 PMYahoo Sports — Rumor: Max Verstappen and McLaren Enter Final Negotiations as Red Bull Leadership Fractures

What they're saying

"
The paddock rumors are officially crystallizing into reality. What started as a speculative whisper has escalated into a potential grid-shattering contract, and Max Verstappen is holding the pen. According to the latest breaking developments, Formula 1 is currently on the…
— Yahoo Sports

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