Former Haas Formula 1 team principal Guenther Steiner has declared that Mercedes no longer feels the urgency to acquire Max Verstappen, naming the Dutchman’s prospective successor as “the next Max Verstappen” – Kimi Antonelli.
During a recent appearance on the Up To Speed podcast, Steiner explained that Verstappen’s path forward may no longer be a sideways step to McLaren, as the Red Bull team, despite recent struggles, remains the commanding choice for any driver seeking front‑line performance.
Mercedes’ Engine for a New Champion
Steiner noted that the German outfit has already secured a powerful engine package ahead of the 2026 season, arguing that the mere possibility of a works power unit gives Mercedes an edge over customer teams such as McLaren. “They’ve lined up the next Max Verstappen,” Steiner said, dismissing the idea that Verstappen would need to move for a technical advantage.
Red Bull’s Position and Limited Alternatives
Verbally, Steiner reminded that Red Bull still maintains engineering independence, citing its in‑house power unit as a decisive advantage. The driver, if he chooses to leave, “would naturally look for a top‑tier team,” Steiner highlighted, while noting that Ferrari already has its seats filled and that Tesovo’s Toto Wolff‑led team would be the only realistic option if a shift occurs.
What It Means for the Next Generation
With Mercedes presenting Kimi Antonelli as a viable replacement and Red Bull preserving its works engine status, the puzzle for Verstappen narrows: a move to Mercedes would appear redundant, while a switch to McLaren — a customer out of the equation — may feel like a step sideways. Steiner’s commentary, delivered alongside former driver David Coulthard and content creator Jolie Sharpe, concludes that Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 hinges on which team can claim the mantle of “best” rather than merely seek a seat.
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