Verstappen-Wolff vacation is a 'coincidence' - Berger

      F1 icon Gerhard Berger doubts that Max Verstappen is genuinely considering a switch to Mercedes. Some, including prominent commentator Martin Brundle, believe that Verstappen’s camp, notably his father Jos, played a role in the unexpected dismissal of Christian Horner as Red Bull team principal. However, the well-informed Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf contests this perspective.

      "It’s known that Jos was a significant critic of Horner and claimed in early 2024 that Red Bull would crumble if he remained," reported correspondent Erik van Haren. "His influence is not to be underestimated, but it should not be exaggerated either. Claims of an agreement with Red Bull management, implying Horner’s exit and Verstappen's commitment to stay, have been dismissed as nonsense by all involved. Red Bull’s management is still anxious that Verstappen might leave."

      Recently, rumors intensified, fueled by reports of Verstappen and Toto Wolff’s yachts being moored near each other in Sardinia. Although photos of the two together were either fake or outdated, Ralf Schumacher understands the basis of the speculation. "When you arrive in Sardinia, it’s typical for paparazzi to be aware of such situations," he explained to Sky Deutschland. "Perhaps they should consider a different vacation destination for some privacy. Yet, it’s certainly peculiar for both of them to be in the same harbor with their boats. I can envision them meeting," added the former F1 driver.

      It’s apparent that Verstappen’s future — especially following Horner’s unexpected departure — will remain a hot topic until the next grand prix in Spa. "Until Spa, there will be much speculation, and the role of Verstappen’s camp will be scrutinized," said van Haren. However, Schumacher cautioned that not much else will change for now. "The change in team principal won’t immediately alter anything technically," he noted. "Pierre Wache will continue developing the car for next year. The outlook for Red Bull currently isn’t promising. If Verstappen seeks short-term success, he’ll need to explore options elsewhere. I believe Mercedes is the destination, though I can imagine Max finds this difficult since he has a natural connection to Red Bull. However, his management and father are likely aware of the direction things are heading. I think it’s Mercedes."

      Berger, closely tied to the Red Bull family, expressed to Kronen Zeitung that the Sardinia narrative has been exaggerated. "It was merely a coincidence," he remarked when questioned about Verstappen and Wolff holidaying simultaneously on the island. "Max has consistently stated his desire to remain loyal to Red Bull, and I believe he will continue to do so after Horner’s exit," Berger added. "The relationship between the Verstappens and Horner was known to be less than ideal, and his departure might even influence Max's decision to stay."

      Berger also found it odd that Horner and his close associates seemed genuinely shocked by his dismissal. "One could see that things were headed towards this outcome," said the former Toro Rosso co-owner. "If Horner didn’t realize that, it’s not a good indication." After Horner’s departure, the new and remaining management’s initial public statements have emphasized that the drivers’ world title remains a possibility for 2025. Berger remarked, "The focus shouldn’t be on an immediate return to title contention. The priority is to stabilize the team and effectively reintegrate Verstappen. Red Bull is clearly in a downward trajectory," he added. "It’s now about rebuilding."