Apr.16 (GMM) Jos Verstappen has rubbished fresh claims that Max Verstappen’s mooted switch to Mercedes is already effectively agreed.
Amid intensifying speculation linking the four-time world champion with the German marque – fuelled in part by his growing ties through GT3 racing – Dutch pundit Jack Plooij even suggested he had heard from the horse’s mouth that the deal was as good as done.
Jos Verstappen’s response was blunt.
“He should see an ENT specialist or just get his ears cleaned,” he reportedly replied on social media.
The denial comes as rumours continue to swirl about Max Verstappen’s long-term future beyond Red Bull, particularly given the team’s struggles under the 2026 regulations he openly despises.
Away from Formula 1, however, the Verstappen family remains deeply immersed in motorsport – albeit in different disciplines.
Speaking to Dutch publication Formule 1, Jos admitted he now prefers rallying to his former F1 life.
“I like this better now,” he said. “I don’t have to drive a Formula 1 car anymore. Not even a few laps, I don’t have to. I did it, it was beautiful.”
Instead, he says watching his son brings just as much satisfaction.
“What’s happening in the family now is much more beautiful to me. When I look at Max, I have as much fun as when I drive myself, so to speak. I find this much more exciting.”
Jos has even tried to lure Max into trying rallying – so far without success.
“No, on the Nurburgring GT3 driving, that is harmless,” he laughed.
“He just has to come and do it (rallying) sometime. On this one, ‘Max please’. Then he’ll talk about it differently.
“He always talks about the trees, but at some point, you don’t see those trees anymore. You know they’re there and you take it into account, but you don’t pay attention to it. It’s important that you know they’re there.”
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES