F1 Rumour: Driver Market Exposed - Max Verstappen To Mercedes, Carlos Sainz To Audi

The Formula 1 driver market has been in full swing this season since almost half the grids' contracts expire at the end of 2024. Lewis Hamilton's announcement of his Ferrari switch next year has made it more unpredictable and teams are now reported to lock potential drivers for the future. Rumors have been doing the rounds about two such drivers, whose movements could change grid dynamics in a big way- Max Verstappen, and Carlos Sainz.

Key Takeaways:

• The Formula 1 driver market is in flux with many contracts expiring at the end of 2024, sparked by Lewis Hamilton's announced move to Ferrari.
• Speculation surrounds potential moves for Max Verstappen to Mercedes and Carlos Sainz to Audi, each impacting grid dynamics.
• Factors influencing decisions include team stability, competitive prospects, and future career trajectories, with teams and drivers carefully considering their options amidst the shifting landscape.

A report from Auto Motor und Sport analyses the potential movements of three-time champion Max Verstappen and Ferrari's Carlos Sainz.

Max Verstappen To Mercedes

Max Verstappen's seemingly firm contract until 2028 is now up in the air, especially if there are shifts in power dynamics at Red Bull, such as the potential departure of motorsport advisor Helmut Marko.

Verstappen's desire to stay with Red Bull hinges on the status quo remaining unchanged, which currently cannot be guaranteed. Despite his recent successes, the prospect of a team switch is more than just speculation, with Mercedes emerging as the most viable option, even amidst efforts by Aston Martin to entice him with star designer Adrian Newey.

Mercedes presents Verstappen with better long-term prospects, including potential roles as a brand ambassador post-retirement. However, the team is grappling with on-track struggles, echoing the challenges faced by Aston Martin as they both navigate periods of transition.

While Verstappen's camp hesitates to commit to Mercedes amidst ongoing success at Red Bull, the Dutch superstar insists on a realistic chance of race wins. Marko, too, is cautious not to jeopardize their partnership unless necessary.

Verstappen holds the luxury of time in assessing his options, with Mercedes willing to wait for the chance to secure the fastest driver of the era, even if it means forgoing alternatives like Carlos Sainz. Reports suggest that Mercedes has already internally approved Verstappen's hefty salary, surpassing that of Lewis Hamilton, with the potential for the investment to pay off should Verstappen clinch a championship with the team.

Carlos Sainz To Audi

With his recent performances, including a victory in Melbourne, Sainz has rekindled interest from several teams, ones that may not have considered him just two months ago. Red Bull, Mercedes, and Aston Martin are secure options for Sainz, while at Audi which is set to take over Sauber in 2026, the three-time Grand Prix winner would need to build his foundation.

However, Sainz reportedly holds the top spot on the list of priorities for Audi. Elsewhere, he is merely one among many contenders. Sauber team principal Andreas Seidl would have other options if Sainz chooses to focus on established teams. With Nico Hülkenberg expected to stay, Audi already possesses a reliable asset in their lineup.

Should Sergio Perez lose his seat at Red Bull, he could emerge as a potential candidate. Alpine's Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon would swiftly seek new opportunities if given the chance, with Alpine perceived as the primary target for acquisition in the field. Alex Albon's commitment to Williams until 2025 complicates matters, while Yuki Tsunoda's current form suggests he should also be on Audi's radar.

In the upcoming months, Formula 1 will see pivotal developments in its driver market, anticipated to be marked by significant activity. The unfolding dynamics between teams and drivers, particularly with the aspirations of junior drivers like Liam Lawson, Oliver Bearman, and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, will be closely observed.