In a move that has sent shockwaves through the world of Formula 1, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Team Principal Toto Wolff has officially confirmed the signing of reigning World Champion Max Verstappen to a record-breaking five-year contract.
The deal, reported to be worth over $300 million, makes Verstappen the highest-paid driver in F1 history and marks one of the most dramatic driver transfers the sport has ever seen.
“This is a historic moment for our team and for Formula 1 as a whole,” Wolff said during a surprise press conference at Mercedes headquarters in Brackley. “Max is a generational talent. Bringing him to Mercedes represents our unwavering commitment to returning to the front of the grid.”
Verstappen, who has spent his entire F1 career with Red Bull Racing since his debut in 2016, expressed gratitude for his time with the Milton Keynes-based team but stated he was ready for a new challenge.
“Red Bull has been my home, and together we achieved great things,” Verstappen said. “But I believe Mercedes offers a new opportunity to build something historic. I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Key Deal Highlights:
- Contract Length: 5 years (2025–2029)
- Estimated Value: $60M+ per year, including bonuses
- Technical Guarantees: Verstappen will have input into car development direction starting with the 2026 regulation changes
- Personnel Clause: Reports suggest Verstappen will bring a select group of engineers with him from Red Bull
The announcement comes amid growing internal tension at Red Bull Racing, particularly between Verstappen’s camp and Team Principal Christian Horner, following months of speculation about the Dutch driver’s future.
Social media exploded moments after the announcement, with Lewis Hamilton posting a cryptic tweet:
“Let the games begin. 🏁”
Red Bull’s Response:
Red Bull has yet to release an official statement but sources say the team was caught off guard by the timing, although not the possibility, of Verstappen’s departure.
The 2025 season just became the most anticipated in modern F1 history, with Verstappen now set to battle his former team from behind the wheel of a Silver Arrow.
