Max Verstappen gives morbid answer on 'failed Mercedes move' as major hint dropped ahead of Belgium Grand Prix

Max Verstappen has broken his silence on a potential move to Mercedes following Toto Wolff's comments that George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will remain in the team.

Where Verstappen will be driving in 2026 has been the hot topic in the F1 paddock all season, with Red Bull falling well off the pace of the dominant McLaren.

With Mercedes the favourites to benefit the most from next year's major regulation changes, the world champion has been heavily linked with a move to the Silver Arrows.

Despite George Russell putting in excellent displays for the German team, he remains uncontracted for next season alongside rookie Kimi Antonelli, fueling speculation around Verstappen.

However, speaking ahead of the Belgium Grand Prix Toto Wolff played down links to the Dutchman, claiming there will be "no big surprises" regarding Mercedes' driver line-up next year.

“The direction we want to take is to continue with George and Kimi. That's our top priority. Everyone is informed," Wolff said via GPBlog.

Max Verstappen's Belgian Grand Prix media conference (credit: getty)

Max Verstappen responds to 'collapsed Mercedes move'

Following Wolff's comments the 27-year-old was once again quizzed on his future on Thursday, and gave potentially the most Verstappen answer possible.

"There is also the possibility of not waking up tomorrow, and so there is no driving," he told a room filled with journalists.

Despite refusing to rule out a move, Verstappen insisted he is happy at Red Bull and is committed to his current contract.

"Life is unpredictable, and in general, I am happy with where I am at, and the target was that when I signed my deal [to 2028], I would drive here until the end of my career."

Verstappen also made comment on the exit of Christian Horner, and explained his current plans for the future of the Red Bull team.

"Now we will work in a different direction, and I am excited about it, and I don't think it will matter at all for the decision over my future," he added.

"The only thing that matters is that we work on the car and make it as fast as we can, and try and be more competitive this year, a little bit, but for sure with the new regulations."