The ever-churning rumour mill of Formula 1 has recently seen an increase in speculation surrounding reigning world champion Max Verstappen and a potential move to Mercedes for the 2026 season. Adding significant weight to the conversation, seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, set to depart Mercedes for Ferrari next year, has offered his candid views on the prospect of his former rival potentially filling his shoes at the Silver Arrows.
Speaking ahead of the British Grand Prix, Hamilton addressed the long-standing rumours linking Verstappen to the team where he spent 11 successful years. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has openly pursued the Dutchman, particularly since Hamilton`s unexpected move to Maranello was announced.
Despite their famously intense and, at times, controversial championship battle in 2021 – a season finale still debated among fans – Hamilton expressed no personal reservations about Verstappen potentially joining Mercedes. “Max didn`t do anything,” Hamilton stated, referring to the events of that year. “He did what he needed to do in terms of winning, so I don`t think it would be a problem.” This is a remarkably pragmatic stance from a competitor, acknowledging the clinical execution of a rival even in the face of a painful defeat.
When asked if he would recommend his former team to Verstappen, Hamilton`s response was unequivocally positive. “Of course [I would recommend Mercedes],” he affirmed, painting a picture of a highly capable operation. “What I can say is, if anyone was going to ask me about Mercedes, it`s an amazing team also with naturally the passion, they`ve got great personnel, it`s a great factory, a great environment to work in.”
Interestingly, Hamilton took a moment to reflect on past remarks about Red Bull, which he once lightheartedly (or perhaps pointedly) described as “only a drinks company.” He admitted regret over the comment, acknowledging the formidable strength of the Milton Keynes squad. “The truth is, Red Bull have been an incredible team. There are so many people there who are exceptional. They`ve dominated for years.” It seems time and a period of Red Bull dominance have instilled a healthy dose of respect, perhaps served with a side of humble pie.
Looking ahead to the pivotal 2026 season, which introduces sweeping new technical regulations, particularly concerning power units, Hamilton pinpointed the likely deciding factor for Verstappen`s future. “He will be looking at the engine,” Hamilton suggested. The expectation within the paddock is that Mercedes, historically a powerhouse in engine design, is well-positioned to produce a leading power unit under the new rules. This contrasts with Red Bull, who will be developing their own engine for the first time in collaboration with Ford, a venture rumoured to be facing significant developmental hurdles compared to established manufacturers.
Ultimately, the prospect of Verstappen, a four-time world champion, potentially joining Mercedes does not seem to faze Hamilton. When asked if it would be “scary,” he offered a simple, matter-of-fact assessment: “Max in any car is a strong opponent. I don`t really think too much about it.” A champion knows a champion`s ability, regardless of the livery.
As the driver market continues to swirl with possibilities for 2026, Hamilton`s insights highlight the key technical motivations potentially driving major decisions, all while offering a surprisingly magnanimous perspective on his fiercest competitor joining his former home.
