Former Haas chief‑executive Guenther Steiner has declared Max Verstappen “absolutely” regrets declining past offers from Mercedes, stating that the switch is now off the table.
Steiner’s claim comes after a turbulent British season
Steiner flagged the claim during a recent episode of The Red Flags Podcast, arguing that instead of waiting, Verstappen would have accepted a 2024 Mercedes deal offered through his legal team and George Russell’s management.
Steiner insists the “door” closed when the Dutchman ignored the “now and then” opportunity, noting that “when it was there, it leapt away.”
Discord at Silverstone sparks calls for change
Verstappen’s frustration at Silverstone had a clear trigger: a recurring rear‑wing fault that induced a spin and a gravel exit at Stowe, echoing a similar Austrian Grand Prix failure.
The mechanical mishap caused a series of sharp radio exchanges and heightened speculation that Red Bull’s roadmap might need a new partner.
Mercedes’ future lineup limits openings
Steiner pointed to Toto Wolff’s recent confirmation that George Russell, Kimi Antonelli and the current driver roster will stay. The Belgian and Italian drivers are set to remain at Brackley for 2027, making it an “impossible” time for a 28‑year‑old to jump ship.
He added that Verstappen “was convinced to stay where he is,” but a newer regulation set re‑inforced the decision to stay and “now it looks like it’s too late.”
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