While Max Verstappen’s future continues to be debated, Jolyon Palmer believes that the arrival of the Dutchman at Mercedes alongside Kimi Antonelli could create an explosive situation.
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The relationship between Max Verstappen and Red Bull is going through a delicate period. After several years of domination, the Austrian team is experiencing a difficult start to the 2026 season, revealing tensions around the Dutchman’s future.
The frustration of the four-time world champion notably reached a new peak during the British Grand Prix. While he seemed capable of securing a podium, a new failure of his rear wing compromised his race at Silverstone.
These difficulties fuel speculation about a possible departure. McLaren is regularly mentioned as a possible destination for Verstappen, even though the Woking team already has two drivers under long-term contracts with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
In fact, the arrival of the Dutchman at McLaren would probably require the departure of Piastri, who could then join Red Bull. This hypothesis was quickly denied by the entourage of the Australian driver.
Mercedes, an option losing ground
The other option mentioned in recent months concerned Mercedes. But this possibility also seems to have cooled down after the statements of George Russell, who said he wants to stay with the Silver Arrows for the next season.
For Jolyon Palmer, even if Russell were to leave the team led by Toto Wolff, recruiting Verstappen would not necessarily be the best solution.
The former British driver explained on the F1 Nation podcast that Mercedes should think twice before forming a Verstappen-Antonelli duo.
“It is only if Max joins McLaren or Mercedes that a big spot could open up at Red Bull, and that would then become an option.”
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Palmer fears a clash between two leaders
According to Palmer, the main problem would be the coexistence between two drivers with very strong personalities.
“If George were to leave and decide to start a new adventure elsewhere, which remains a big hypothesis, would Toto Wolff really want to pair his great talent Kimi Antonelli with Max Verstappen?”
For him, this pairing could quickly become difficult to manage.
“It looks today like a recipe for disaster. Kimi has proven, in my opinion, that he is a number one driver. He is not going to arrive to play the role of second driver.”
The young Italian, who represents Mercedes’ future, would according to Palmer have already sufficiently demonstrated his potential to claim a leader status within the team.
Antonelli would have changed the game at Mercedes
Jolyon Palmer believes that the progress made by Kimi Antonelli completely changes the strategy that Mercedes could adopt in the transfer market.
“I think Kimi has raised his level to the point where, if George leaves, Max is no longer necessarily the ideal replacement.”
This analysis therefore places Mercedes facing an important strategic choice. Recruiting a driver of Verstappen’s caliber would guarantee enormous sporting and media power, but would also risk creating an internal rivalry between two drivers capable of aiming for the title.
While Red Bull is still trying to convince its champion to stay, uncertainty remains total around Max Verstappen’s future. One thing is certain: his next choice could profoundly change the balance of power in Formula 1.
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