When Lewis Hamilton announced his stunning departure from Mercedes for Ferrari starting in 2025, it left a coveted seat open at the Silver Arrows. Team boss Toto Wolff hasn`t been shy about his interest in securing the sport`s dominant force, Max Verstappen, particularly with an eye on the significant regulation changes slated for 2026. Now, the driver Verstappen famously battled for the 2021 title has weighed in on the possibility.
Speaking ahead of the British Grand Prix, Hamilton offered a surprisingly candid take. Asked directly about the prospect of Verstappen joining Mercedes, Hamilton stated simply that it would be “no problem.” He acknowledged Verstappen`s performance, noting he “did what he needed to do in terms of winning,” a perhaps understated nod to their heated past.
Intriguingly, Hamilton went further, confirming he would indeed recommend his long-time team to the reigning champion. This comes with a touch of reflection (and maybe a hint of irony, given their history), as Hamilton recalled a past comment where he dismissively called Red Bull “only a drinks company” – a remark he now regrets, acknowledging Red Bull`s undeniable strength and exceptional personnel.
Despite that past rivalry and regret, Hamilton was clear in his praise for Mercedes. He described them as an “amazing team” with “passion,” “great personnel,” a “great factory,” and a positive “environment to work in.” His recommendation is rooted in his deep familiarity with the team`s capabilities and culture.
The timing of these discussions, particularly concerning 2026, isn`t coincidental. That year sees radical new engine regulations introduced in Formula 1, a factor Hamilton believes will be paramount in Verstappen`s decision-making. “He will be looking at the engine,” Hamilton predicted. He expressed confidence that “Mercedes will build an amazing engine next year because that`s what they are particularly strong at building.” This contrasts with Red Bull`s relatively untested in-house engine project for 2026.
Asked if a potential Verstappen-in-a-2026-Mercedes scenario was “scary,” Hamilton remained unfazed. “Max in any car is a strong opponent,” he said, downplaying any personal apprehension. For Hamilton, the focus is clearly on the technical merits, specifically the engine prospects under the new rules.
The idea of Max Verstappen joining the team Lewis Hamilton led for so many years, potentially with Hamilton`s blessing and recommendation, is a fascinating twist in the ever-evolving F1 driver market saga. It highlights the pragmatic reality of the sport, where even the fiercest past rivalries can give way to technical considerations and professional respect, albeit delivered with Hamilton`s unique blend of candor and strategic perspective.
