Mercedes’ internal dispute in the 2026 Formula 1 season could have important consequences for the team’s future. Former driver Riccardo Patrese believes that Max Verstappen could join Mercedes in 2027, which would put direct pressure on George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.
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After three races held this year, the German team is experiencing a dominant start, with Antonelli taking the championship lead after the victory in Suzuka, while Russell finished the race in fourth position. The Italian now has a nine-point lead, consolidating the duo as strong title contenders.
With this scenario, expectations are growing that the championship battle will be concentrated between the two Mercedes drivers. The situation recalls McLaren’s internal duel in the first half of last season, before the reaction from Verstappen and Red Bull Racing, which was not enough to take the title from Norris and McLaren.
Patrese, who raced for Williams in Formula 1, believes that both drivers have real chances of winning the title. However, he also indicated that this dispute could have a direct impact on the team’s future if Verstappen decides to switch teams: “Kimi and Russell both have the chance to win the championship. One of the two will be world champion this season,” the former driver stated in an interview with a betting site.
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In Patrese’s assessment, the scenario could change quickly if Verstappen becomes an option for Mercedes. The former driver highlighted that the Dutchman remains the main name on the current grid and would have a place in the German team: “If Max wants to go to Mercedes, and I think he can do that because he is still the best driver in Formula 1, at that moment whoever is his teammate will be the next champion. Let’s see if it will be Russell or Kimi,” the Italian concluded.
This statement reinforces the possibility of major changes in the driver market for 2027. If the prediction is confirmed, the outcome of the current internal dispute at Mercedes could define who will remain alongside Verstappen in the future.
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