Mercedes willing to wait for Max Verstappen

As the team grapples with internal power dynamics, Mercedes is keeping a close eye on the situation, hoping to capitalize on any opportunity to secure the services of Max Verstappen for the 2025 season and beyond.

Red Bull Power Struggle

Red Bull's struggles extend beyond the race track, with a reported power struggle brewing between team principal Christian Horner and long-serving advisor Helmut Marko.

Following an investigation into Horner's conduct that was dismissed in February, Verstappen's father, Jos, publicly called for Horner's resignation, accusing him of "playing the victim when he is the one causing the problems."

The situation took another twist when it was revealed that design guru Adrian Newey would be leaving the team early next year, further fueling speculation about Verstappen's future with the Milton Keynes-based outfit.

Verstappen's contract and the Marko clause

Verstappen's contract with Red Bull, which runs until the end of the 2028 season, is believed to contain a clause that allows the three-time World Champion to walk away if Marko is dismissed or suspended from his role.

This clause, potentially inserted without Horner's knowledge, has become a focal point in the ongoing power struggle.

Reports suggest that Verstappen is "stuck in a corner" in the driver market, with any commitment to Red Bull beyond 2024 likely signaling Horner's green light to oust Marko.

However, Marko is rumored to have promised Verstappen that he will "do whatever he wants," potentially smoothing the path for the Dutchman to join Mercedes by quitting Red Bull himself.

Mercedes' waiting game:

Amidst this uncertainty, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has made no secret of his desire to sign Verstappen as Lewis Hamilton's successor for 2025.

However, the Silver Arrows are reportedly prepared to wait until October to finalize their driver lineup, hoping to lure Verstappen away from Red Bull.

Wolff's patience is strategic, as an early decision could leave Marko exposed to Horner's potential power grab, knowing Verstappen has no appealing alternative.

By delaying their decision, Mercedes aims to keep their options open and potentially capitalize on any developments within Red Bull's internal dynamics.

Contingency plans and implications

If Mercedes fails to secure Verstappen for 2025, Wolff is rumored to be considering the "risk" of promoting 17-year-old Italian sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli alongside George Russell.

However, this scenario raises questions about the future of either Antonelli or Russell, as one would potentially need to make way for Verstappen should he join in 2026.

The implications of this saga extend beyond the driver market, as the FIA has received a special dispensation request to allow Antonelli to race in F1 before his 18th birthday, potentially paving the way for him to replace Logan Sargeant at Williams for the second half of the 2024 season.