Verstappen's potential Red Bull exit could reshape F1 driver market
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 3:01 PM
Last updated Aug 8, 2026
Former F1 champion Emerson Fittipaldi believes Max Verstappen's possible departure from Red Bull could trigger significant changes in the driver market. Despite struggling this season with four podium finishes and sitting sixth in the standings, Verstappen has been loyal to the team. Fittipaldi acknowledged the loyalty but suggested his exit could start a reshuffling of drivers across the grid. Mika Hakkinen expressed concerns about Verstappen joining McLaren, citing potential disruptions to team stability. McLaren currently features competitive drivers and values team harmony, which Hakkinen views as crucial for long-term success.
- •Verstappen has four podiums but no wins this season.
- •He currently ranks sixth in the drivers' standings.
- •Fittipaldi warns Verstappen's exit could create a 'musical chairs' effect.
- •Hakkinen advises McLaren to maintain its current driver lineup.
- •Team stability is important for long-term success according to Hakkinen.
- 3:01 PMYahoo Sports — Verstappen Red Bull exit tipped to trigger F1 driver market ‘musical chairs’
"Former F1 world champion Emerson Fittipaldi believes that a potential Max Verstappen departure from Red Bull could turn the driver market into a game of musical chairs, while also acknowledging the four-time world champion’s strong loyalty to the team. The four-time world champion has endured an up-and-down season so far, claiming four podiums but still searching for his first victory, despite coming close in Austria.
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