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 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
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
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