“There will be room for him everywhere”: Ralf Schumacher believes Max Verstappen has four F1 teams lined up amid Red Bull unrest

Rumours surrounding Max Verstappen's Red Bull future continue to grow louder, with four Formula 1 teams—McLaren and Alpine among them—now being reported as having interest in a potential transfer for the current champion. Speculations are that the 27-year-old Dutchman is considering his alternatives as Formula 1 moves into a new age — and the premier teams are keeping a close eye.


Formula 1 phenomenon Max Verstappen might be contracted to Red Bull Racing until the end of 2028, but the paddock is abuzz with new gossip regarding a potential team switch. The three-time world champion is said to be on the shopping list of four competing teams—with an unexpected new entrant now being mentioned.
As Red Bull Racing confronts internal friction and an unpredictable future beyond 2026 regulation adjustments, Max Verstappen's long-term allegiance is under more scrutiny than ever before.

Ex-Formula 1 driver and current commentator Ralf Schumacher has set the rumour mill spinning, stating that Max Verstappen might be on the wish list of almost half the grid. Discussing on Sky Sports Germany's Backstage Boxengasse podcast, Ralf Schumacher stated that Max Verstappen's ability to turn a race around makes him a highly sought-after driver for any team. “There will be room for Verstappen everywhere. Once again this year he has shown what a difference he can make as a driver.” Schumacher said.
The favourites to land Verstappen in the sweepstakes are thought to be Mercedes and Aston Martin —perennially rumoured suitors— but Schumacher also added McLaren and Alpine to the mix. He mentioned McLaren's previous interest before they signed up Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris for the long haul, indicating McLaren CEO Zak Brown still has a lot of respect for Verstappen.
Though Red Bull Racing continues to provide Verstappen with a competitive machine, doubts regarding team management and next- year's performance under new 2026 regulations may force the Dutchman to rethink his future. For the time being, he is thinking only about defending his title — but in case Red Bull falters, the grid is waiting.
Also read: Max Verstappen on coming 6th at the Bahrain Grand Prix with Red Bull’s balance and tyre issues
Ralf Schumacher's words are echoed by many in the paddock: Max Verstappen's next step might reframe the sport — and reconfigure the power balance for decades to come.