Latest F1 Rumors: Max Verstappen to Mercedes, Horner’s Next Move, and More for 2025
Latest F1 Rumors: Shocking Driver Moves and Team Shakeups for 2025
The Formula 1 paddock is buzzing with rumors as the 2025 season reaches its midpoint, with seismic shifts in driver lineups, team leadership, and broadcasting rights dominating headlines. From Max Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes to Christian Horner’s unexpected exit from Red Bull, here’s the latest scoop on F1’s ever-changing landscape.
Max Verstappen to Mercedes?Despite a contract with Red Bull until 2028, Max Verstappen is at the center of speculation about a possible switch to Mercedes for 2026. Posts on X and reports from outlets like PlanetF1 suggest that talks may already be underway, with a key moment approaching as teams prepare for the 2026 regulation changes. Verstappen’s frustration with Red Bull’s 2025 performance has fueled these rumors, with some even claiming Nelson Piquet Jr. hinted at the move on a podcast, saying, “Who knows what next year might bring when Max is driving there [Mercedes]!” While unconfirmed, this chatter has F1 fans in a frenzy.
Christian Horner’s Shock Departure and Next StepsChristian Horner’s 20-year tenure as Red Bull’s team principal ended abruptly, sparking widespread debate. Reports from Autosport and The Athletic indicate his sacking was due to a combination of poor team performance, a sexting scandal, and internal power struggles. Bernie Ecclestone didn’t mince words, labeling Horner “an idiot” for his actions. Now, rumors suggest Horner could be eyeing a move to a rival team, with posts on X linking him to a potential role at Ferrari, though no official confirmation has surfaced. Laurent Mekies has stepped in as Red Bull’s new team principal, and the paddock is watching closely to see how this affects the team’s trajectory.
Apple’s Bid for F1 Streaming RightsApple has emerged as a frontrunner to secure F1 streaming rights in the U.S., potentially outbidding ESPN, according to Motorsport.com. This follows the success of the “F1” movie, which has heightened interest in the sport. If Apple secures the deal, it could reshape how American fans watch races, offering a new platform for live coverage and exclusive content.
Ferrari’s Radical Changes and Hamilton’s RoleFerrari is grappling with performance issues at high-speed tracks, and rumors are swirling about a potential shakeup in team leadership. RacingNews365 reports that Ferrari might consider a “McLaren-style” restructuring, possibly involving team principal Fred Vasseur. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton, now with Ferrari, is already focusing on the 2026 regulations to help the team reclaim its former glory. However, Charles Leclerc’s driving coach has urged Ferrari to prioritize Hamilton’s integration to avoid further setbacks.
Other Rumors: Mick Schumacher, Kimi Antonelli, and More
What’s Next for F1?As teams shift focus to 2026 car development, the 2025 season continues to deliver drama both on and off the track. With the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps looming (July 25-27), expect more clarity on these rumors as the silly season heats up. Stay tuned for updates as F1’s future takes shape.
Max Verstappen to Mercedes?Despite a contract with Red Bull until 2028, Max Verstappen is at the center of speculation about a possible switch to Mercedes for 2026. Posts on X and reports from outlets like PlanetF1 suggest that talks may already be underway, with a key moment approaching as teams prepare for the 2026 regulation changes. Verstappen’s frustration with Red Bull’s 2025 performance has fueled these rumors, with some even claiming Nelson Piquet Jr. hinted at the move on a podcast, saying, “Who knows what next year might bring when Max is driving there [Mercedes]!” While unconfirmed, this chatter has F1 fans in a frenzy.
Christian Horner’s Shock Departure and Next StepsChristian Horner’s 20-year tenure as Red Bull’s team principal ended abruptly, sparking widespread debate. Reports from Autosport and The Athletic indicate his sacking was due to a combination of poor team performance, a sexting scandal, and internal power struggles. Bernie Ecclestone didn’t mince words, labeling Horner “an idiot” for his actions. Now, rumors suggest Horner could be eyeing a move to a rival team, with posts on X linking him to a potential role at Ferrari, though no official confirmation has surfaced. Laurent Mekies has stepped in as Red Bull’s new team principal, and the paddock is watching closely to see how this affects the team’s trajectory.
Apple’s Bid for F1 Streaming RightsApple has emerged as a frontrunner to secure F1 streaming rights in the U.S., potentially outbidding ESPN, according to Motorsport.com. This follows the success of the “F1” movie, which has heightened interest in the sport. If Apple secures the deal, it could reshape how American fans watch races, offering a new platform for live coverage and exclusive content.
Ferrari’s Radical Changes and Hamilton’s RoleFerrari is grappling with performance issues at high-speed tracks, and rumors are swirling about a potential shakeup in team leadership. RacingNews365 reports that Ferrari might consider a “McLaren-style” restructuring, possibly involving team principal Fred Vasseur. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton, now with Ferrari, is already focusing on the 2026 regulations to help the team reclaim its former glory. However, Charles Leclerc’s driving coach has urged Ferrari to prioritize Hamilton’s integration to avoid further setbacks.
Other Rumors: Mick Schumacher, Kimi Antonelli, and More
- Mick Schumacher is in talks with Cadillac’s F1 team, though Daniel Ricciardo has been ruled out, per Motorsport.com.
- Kimi Antonelli is rumored to have signed with Mercedes, with an announcement expected at the Italian Grand Prix, according to posts on X.
- FIA Presidency: Tim Mayer is challenging Mohammed Ben Sulayem in the December 2025 FIA election, promising to shake up the governing body.
- Reverse Grids and Sprint Races: Discussions about increasing sprint races to eight or more and introducing reverse grids are gaining traction, as per X posts.
What’s Next for F1?As teams shift focus to 2026 car development, the 2025 season continues to deliver drama both on and off the track. With the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps looming (July 25-27), expect more clarity on these rumors as the silly season heats up. Stay tuned for updates as F1’s future takes shape.
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