In the world of Formula One, where drivers and teams are constantly in flux, the latest buzz revolves around Max Verstappen's potential departure from Red Bull. With the four-time world champion's contract up for grabs, the question on everyone's mind is where he might end up next. Guenther Steiner, a well-known figure in F1, believes that Ferrari could be the dark horse in this scenario, but he also raises some intriguing points about the other potential suitors.
Steiner's opinion that Max can only go to three teams - Ferrari, McLaren, or Mercedes - is an interesting one. He sees Max as the GOAT, the greatest of all time, and thinks that teams will be willing to make sacrifices for his signature. However, he also acknowledges that these teams might not be in a position to offer him a seat right now. This raises the question: what would it take for these teams to make a move for Max? Steiner suggests that it might require a similar situation to when Ferrari let go of Carlos Sainz for Lewis Hamilton.
One team that Steiner doesn't mention is Mercedes, who are currently at the top of the constructors' standings and have Kimi Antonelli and George Russell occupying the top two spots in the drivers' championship. Would a change make sense for Mercedes? The question is intriguing, especially given Mercedes' recent success and the fact that they know how to win world championships.
However, Steiner's point about the grass not being greener elsewhere is well-taken. Rob Smedley, a former Ferrari engineer, warns that leaving for the opportunity to be a No.1 driver doesn't always work out well. Smedley points out that McLaren is catching up, Mercedes is in front, and that over the last two years, Mercedes has been the best team. He suggests that if you're a driver in a team like McLaren or Mercedes and you're struggling against your teammate, you might be better off staying put.
So, where does this leave Max? Steiner believes that Max will be looking for a team that is focused on him, but he also acknowledges that these teams might not be in a position to offer him a seat right now. The question remains: will Max stay with Red Bull, or will he make a bold move to one of the other teams? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the F1 world is holding its breath, waiting to see what happens next.
