Max Verstappen has a ‘deep respect’ for one Formula 1 rival who could be his teammate in 2027

Follow us on Google Discover

Max Verstappen could conceivably be racing for five different Formula 1 teams in 2027. The identity of his teammate may play a part in the decision.

Verstappen would ideally like to stay at Red Bull for the rest of his career, having already recommitted to the team for 2026. But that will depend on whether they can continue to give him a winning car.

Mercedes remain interested in Verstappen and are widely seen as the favourites should he depart. Extensions for George Russell and Kimi Antonelli haven’t closed that door.

Verstappen’s links to Ferrari have grown in recent weeks, too. Aston Martin and McLaren complete the quintet of realistic destinations for the reigning world champion.

Max Verstappen would partner Charles Leclerc despite their ‘eternal’ rivalry

If Verstappen were to join Ferrari, he would likely be racing alongside Charles Leclerc, who has been with the team since 2019. Leclerc is under contract until the end of 2029, though his deal naturally contains some exit routes.

With an underperforming Lewis Hamilton due to turn 41 this winter as he enters the final guaranteed year of his Ferrari deal, Leclerc is much more likely to stay. And according to Gazzetta dello Sport, a partnership between the Monegasque and Verstappen isn’t ‘impossible’.

Leclerc and Verstappen have been ‘eternal’ rivals, stretching back to their karting days. But the Dutchman has always indicated that he would have ‘no problem’ sharing a garage.

Verstappen has a ‘deep respect’ for his fellow 28-year-old. Leclerc’s stance is unknown, but he had no known qualms with Ferrari signing another F1 legend in Hamilton.

Racing Bulls driver Isack Hadjar has observed that Verstappen gives Leclerc more room on track, such is his lofty view of the Ferrari star.

Charles Leclerc has started playing ‘charades’ with Ferrari

Recent reports have cast doubt on Leclerc’s future at Ferrari. Another year older, he may be starting to question whether the team can deliver a title-worthy car.

It’s said that Leclerc is considering McLaren, raising the possibility of a seat swap with Oscar Piastri.

Meanwhile, Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, suspects Toto Wolff is in contact with Leclerc’s camp too, given his long-term admiration of the eight-time race-winner.

However, one journalist thinks that Leclerc is playing a ‘game of charades’ with Ferrari by starting a dialogue with rival teams. Rather than genuinely intending to leave, he might simply want the team to recognise his ‘value’.