Max Verstappen backed to leave Red Bull for F1 rivals – not Mercedes, Ferrari or McLaren

has been tipped to shock the world by leaving for a team who have not won a Grand Prix in over a decade.The reigning world champion is tied down until 2028 but continues to be linked with a move elsewhere. The frosty relations between his father Jos and team principal have fuelled rumours that he could leave before his contract expires.’s decline over the last few months has also led to speculation that Verstappen could seek an exit if they fail to turn things around. are known to be admirers of the Dutchman, with making no secret of his desire to work alongside him one day. and , who are currently the quickest teams on the grid, would also be potential options.

However, former F1 mechanic Marc Priestley believes Williams could present Verstappen with the most compelling package despite winning just 17 points all season.He told Casino Uden Rofus: “The drivers’ market is so complicated at the moment because everyone is basing their move on the regulation changes in 2026.”You have to choose the team you think will produce the best car. It could be a team like Williams. It’s a tough call. If you’re , you’d look at but they have two young drivers for years to come.” are not at the top at the moment but everyone knows they’re a solid team and very good operators. We also know Verstappen has had a lot of talks with .”You could also look at Williams who, under the leadership of James Vowles, are building heavily towards 2026 with big expectations. I know for a fact they expect to compete right at the top with the best teams on the grid. Maybe it’s an opportunity.”

The prospect of Verstappen moving to Williams would appear to be highly unlikely. It is difficult to imagine him wanting to race for a team who have not competed at the front in decades, but that could change if they nail the 2026 regulations.In any case, it seems the 27-year-old is happy at for the time being, having repeatedly insisted that he expects to spend the rest of his career there.”I am just happy where I am at,” said Verstappen last month. “It would also be very beautiful if you just could stay with one team and race there forever. I would like to believe that is the target.”Am I bothered about a legacy? No. I don’t value my success because of what other people say. If I am happy, that is all that matters. In sport, you also need a bit of luck to be in the right team for a long time.”