Imagine Red Bull drops Max Verstappen into the drivers’ market today – the buzz would be unimaginable! There is no denying that almost all the racing teams would look to lure the Dutchman, with Mercedes possibly being one of them.

There were even rumors emerging ahead of the 2021 season that Verstappen could potentially replace Lewis Hamilton if the latter opts against extending his contract. And, Verstappen would have at least considered an offer from Mercedes, solely for their sheer dominance in F1 at the moment.

Hence, a move to Mercedes was always an option for Verstappen; but these conversations lasted only till the 2021 British Grand Prix. Then, things took a wild turn.

The accusations from Red Bull

The crash at Silverstone and Mercedes’ post-race celebrations irked Verstappen, who was then at the hospital receiving treatment. Lewis Hamilton won the race and celebrated the home victory with the British flag in hand. Red Bull, on the other hand, could do nothing but stare at their rivals embracing their triumph.

Consequently, words emerged from Red Bull associates like bullets; Jos Verstappen acknowledged that a move to Mercedes is off the table because of the disrespect they showed while his son was in the hospital after having suffered a life-threatening crash caused by the Mercedes driver.

Soon, Dr. Helmut Marko opined that Verstappen would rather take a cab than sit in a Mercedes from hereon.

Watch Story: Lewis Hamilton’s Biggest F1 Crashes

Max Verstappen denies disrespecting Mercedes

Only weeks after winning the championship against the very driver that caused that incident, Verstappen denied making any comments that disrespected the Brackley outfit.

During an interview with Servus TV, the Dutchman was reminded of his own comments stating that he wouldn’t get in a Mercedes and rather take a cab. But did he really say that?

Well, the world champion immediately contradicted the statement with a laugh. “I didn’t say that, no no no,” he responded.

Overall, it looks like the equation is indeed repairable between Verstappen and Mercedes. And with Mercedes facing a grim two months ahead amidst the Hamilton retirement rumors, they’d certainly be wishing they had a driver like Verstappen as a potential replacement candidate. How do you think the Hamilton retirement saga will play out?

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