McLaren CEO Zak Brown has revealed he enquired about Max Verstappen‘s position to discover whether a “domino effect” could occur in the Formula 1 driver market.
Verstappen’s future has become a renewed talking point in recent weeks amid Red Bull’s persistent struggle to provide him with a package that can rival the McLaren.
The Dutchman has been associated with potential moves to both Aston Martin and Mercedes, though it emerged in March that Brown had also approached his camp.
Brown’s discussion is reported to have taken place “some time ago” and preceded McLaren signing Oscar Piastri to a renewed deal to remain alongside Lando Norris.
When quizzed on the reason behind the contact, Brown explained how he was doing his due diligence to understand whether Verstappen leaving Red Bull is plausible.
Red Bull harbours a vested interest in McLaren’s current line-up and would be poised to make a move to poach either in the circumstance where Verstappen departed.
“Oh yes, about that call… It is my job to explore the market and to know what is going on,” Brown told De Telegraaf.
“We have to remember that at that time I was also negotiating a new contract with my own driver [Piastri].
“I want to be able to estimate whether a possible stone may fall, which can cause a domino effect. Because that could rekindle interest in my driver.
“That’s the reason I inquired. I’m a happy camper.”
Verstappen demands exceeded McLaren
Verstappen validated that Brown had reached out to his entourage, but he divulged that his financial demands surpassed what McLaren would be prepared to expend.
“Yes, but I think that didn’t last long,” he told Viaplay. “When he knew how much he would have to pay, it was over immediately.”
Pressed on how much he was talking about, the reigning F1 champion remarked: “A lot!”
Asked about Verstappen’s response, Brown added: “Let me put it this way, during that phone call I got the information I needed…”
Brown hopes Mercedes avoid Verstappen move
Brown has predicted Verstappen will exit Red Bull and head to pastures new at Mercedes in 2026, when new regulations are poised to shake up the competitive order.
But amid the consensus that the German marque is the most advanced with development on next season’s power units, the American hopes Verstappen remains put.
“If you ask me now and if I look at the current situation, I’d rather see Max driving at Red Bull than at Mercedes,” he admitted.
“There is a lot of talk about the cars next year, but no one can be sure who is in the best position.
“What I can say is that I have an incredible amount of confidence in Mercedes. Then I look at their track record as an engine supplier and at their body language.
“Lately, there have been many parties who want the engine regulations to be adjusted.
“If you think you’re competitive, you don’t want to change anything. At Mercedes I see that they seem very comfortable.”
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