Jul.15 (GMM) The driver ‘silly season’ for the 2026 Formula 1 season is revving into a high gear.
Some see Christian Horner’s shock sacking as a desperate move by Red Bull to retain Max Verstappen, although reports he met with Toto Wolff in Sardinia this week have proved wide of the mark.
Nonetheless, former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher senses the quadruple world champion really may make the switch.
“We are hearing now that the Mercedes management is showing a lot of interest in Verstappen,” he told Sport1.
“I think if they show him that they will do everything for him to come, he will make the move, because he really wants to win and needs something new for that now.
“The problem is that he is with a team that has done everything for him, and it is not easy to give up something like that,” Schumacher added.
“I still think something will happen after the summer break. I can’t imagine he will stay because I suspect Red Bull will need three to five years to rebuild everything and be at the top again.”
If Verstappen does depart, the brother of his girlfriend Kelly – Nelson Piquet jr – thinks it is obvious the Dutchman will be paired with Kimi Antonelli.
That would make George Russell at Red Bull a possibility – probably to be paired with Isack Hadjar.
The New Zealand Herald newspaper reports that with Hadjar likely to be promoted, it is therefore “increasingly likely” that Liam Lawson will be retained by Racing Bulls.
Lawson’s rookie teammate would then be Arvid Lindblad, who after receiving his FIA super license at the young age of 17 is now regularly at the wheel of Red Bull-owned F1 cars.
The British-Swedish youngster made his F1 practice debut for Red Bull Racing at Silverstone. “Lindblad was back in the car the week after the Silverstone GP,” advisor Dr Helmut Marko revealed to Speed Week.
“He completed more than 100 laps and demonstrated excellent physical condition and competitive lap times.”
Meanwhile, amid rumours that Sergio Perez may already have been quietly signed, Auto Motor und Sport reports that Cadillac is expected to announce its first driver for 2026 “before the summer break”.
Valtteri Bottas was photographed in conversation with team boss Graeme Lowdon during the British GP weekend, while several younger drivers including Felipe Drugovich, Frederik Vesti and Mick Schumacher have all been mentioned.
“Bottas, Schumacher, and Drugovich held talks with Cadillac officials on the sidelines of the Silverstone weekend,” correspondent Michael Schmidt revealed.
“However, no contracts have been signed yet.”
Schmidt notes that at least one signing is “urgent”, given that only inexperienced American drivers have so far been used in the simulator.
“Indycar driver Colton Herta is only a candidate once Cadillac has established itself in Formula 1,” he said.
Cadillac is believed to want to kick-start its on-track preparations with experienced drivers. “For the so-called TPC tests, Cadillac will receive a 2023 Ferrari from its future engine partner,” Schmidt revealed.
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES