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Mercedes hint: 'Verstappen may regret earlier rejection'
A statement from the Mercedes camp suggests that Max Verstappen might now regret his past decision to pass on joining the team.
By Sanne Vermeer - 2026-07-15T19:41:28.000Z - 1 min read
The rumor mill surrounding Max Verstappen's future is spinning at full speed, with speculation linking him to various teams, including Mercedes. Now, the personnel from Brackley are joining the debate in their own way by sending a clear message to the world.
From within the German team comes the suggestion that the reigning world champion might regret missing out on an earlier opportunity to drive for them. It reads as a stern warning—or at the very least, a firm positioning—amid ongoing discussions about Verstappen's next step.
This statement references a moment in the past when Verstappen had the opportunity to join Mercedes. Ultimately, he chose Red Bull Racing at the time, a decision that is now viewed from Mercedes' perspective as a missed opportunity.
Although no direct claims of regret are made by the driver himself, Mercedes' stance signals a clear position. The comments appear to figuratively close the door on any potential move by Verstappen in the near future, emphasizing that their momentum has passed.