McLaren boss Zak Brown has admitted the prospect of Max Verstappen joining Mercedes is “scary”. Verstappen continues to be linked with a shock move to Mercedes for F1 2026 and reports ahead of the British Grand Prix have claimed that talks between the two camps have intensified, with the Dutchman said to be open to a switch.

Max Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull through 2028, but a performance clause has given Mercedes and opportunity to poach the world champion.

Max Verstappen, who is currently signed with Red Bull, is in talks with Mercedes over changing sides, according to The Guardian. The negotiations have reportedly intensified leading up to this weekend's British Grand Prix.