Max Verstappen was anything but satisfied at Silverstone. © APA/afp / ANDREJ ISAKOVIC

Verstappen rages in Silverstone: "Embarrassing, bad"

Max Verstappen's mood is getting increasingly foul at the British Grand Prix. This also raises questions about his future.

July 05, 2026

From: dpa

Max Verstappen was absolutely furious. Ahead of Sunday's British Grand Prix (16.00 p.m.), virtually nothing went right for the four-time world champion Red Bull driver in qualifying. After storming to pole position at Silverstone a year ago, Verstappen had to settle for seventh place this time. A week after his second-place finish in Austria, this is frustrating, especially since he also finished two places behind his teammate Isack Hadjar.

“We have a problem, and of course that worries me. If we go into the race like this, it makes no sense,” said Verstappen, who had only finished sixth in the sprint, with a stony expression. “Embarrassing, bad,” the 28-year-old said of what he had experienced earlier in qualifying. No balance in the car, no top speed – Verstappen’s mood is getting worse and worse.

What does the future hold for Verstappen?

Rumors about a possible early departure of the 71-time Grand Prix winner from Red Bull have been circulating for some time. His contract actually runs until the end of 2028, but includes performance clauses that would allow him to leave earlier. Mercedes and McLaren are repeatedly mentioned as potential suitors, even though the management of both teams recently indicated they are happy with their current drivers.

Where does Max Verstappen's future lie? © ANSA / PETER POWELL / POOL

Mercedes will field championship leader Kimi Antonelli, who secured pole position at Silverstone, and George Russell, who finished fourth this time. McLaren will rely on the duo of world champion Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

“Those are rumors,” said McLaren CEO Zak Brown regarding speculation about a possible connection between Verstappen and his team. “I’m very happy with both of my drivers.” Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recently asserted: “Our plan is not to change anything about the driver lineup.” The team wants stability.