Max Verstappen's 2027 Move Could Put 'Fear' Into Every Driver on the Grid
F1 pundit Johnny Herbert warns that Max Verstappen's potential availability in 2027 makes him the "dictator of the driver market." He claims every driver should fear for their seat if the champion decides to leave Red Bull after evaluating their new in-house engine in 2026.
Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert believes Max Verstappen holds the power to dictate the 2027 driver market, suggesting every other driver should fear for their seat if the reigning champion decides to leave Red Bull. Verstappen is committed to Red Bull for the 2026 season, but his future beyond that hinges on the team's competitiveness with its new in-house power unit.
Why it matters:
Verstappen's potential availability in 2027 would be the most significant driver market shakeup in a generation. As a four-time champion in his prime, his decision could force top teams to reconsider their line-ups and create a domino effect that unsettles the entire grid, putting immense pressure on every driver to secure their position.
The details:
- Verstappen's contract with Red Bull runs through 2028, but performance clauses are widely believed to allow an exit if the car is uncompetitive.
- The 2026 season is a critical proving ground for Red Bull's new power unit division, a major technical gamble.
- Herbert argues Verstappen's driving prowess and intimidating racecraft give him unparalleled leverage, making him the "dictator of the driver market."
- Should Verstappen look to move, top seats at Mercedes, Ferrari, or Aston Martin would likely be his primary targets, potentially displacing an incumbent star.
The big picture:
While Red Bull remains the dominant force, the internal turmoil earlier this season and the upcoming engine project have introduced long-term uncertainty. Verstappen's loyalty is tied to performance, not sentiment. His next move will not only define the final chapter of his career but also reshape the competitive hierarchy for years to come, as any team he joins would instantly become a championship contender.
What's next:
All eyes will be on Red Bull's performance in 2026. If their new car and power unit are front-runners, Verstappen will almost certainly stay. If they falter, the scramble for his signature will begin, triggering a high-stakes game of musical chairs that could redefine team line-ups across the Formula 1 grid.