Rachel Brookes predicts Verstappen-Mercedes move in major F1 driver reshuffle

Brookes’ predicted F1 driver market shake-up

Former Sky Sports Formula 1 presenter Rachel Brookes has predicted a dramatic reshaping of the Formula 1 grid, with four-time world champion Max Verstappen moving from Red Bull to Mercedes and Oscar Piastri taking his place at the reigning team.

The wider reshuffle would also see Carlos Sainz move to Audi, Fernando Alonso return to Alpine and Franco Colapinto go back to Williams. Brookes added that Leonardo Fornaroli could reach the grid, although she was not certain which team would provide his seat.

Why Brookes sees Verstappen leaving Red Bull

Brookes’ central prediction is built around Verstappen’s desire to return to race-winning machinery. She argued that the Dutchman is demonstrating his ability to extract results from a car that, in her view, should be finishing much lower, but that he ultimately wants to fight for victories rather than continue producing recovery drives.

“He wants to be winning again,” Brookes said. “He doesn’t want to have to show that he can get a car that should be 10th up to second.”

She also pointed to the number of people who have left Red Bull, suggesting that Verstappen may feel he has given the team everything he can and is now considering a fresh opportunity. Brookes believes Mercedes would be his destination, partly because team principal Toto Wolff still regrets missing the chance to sign him before his move to Red Bull.

“Max to Mercedes, it’s just in my head still,” she said, adding that Verstappen could relish competing alongside Antonelli.

Verstappen has been linked with a Red Bull departure for some time. It is understood that he may be able to activate an exit clause because he is not in the top two of the drivers’ standings, although he has consistently declined to comment on speculation involving Mercedes and McLaren. For further context on Brookes’ recent F1 career, see her emotional paddock farewell after leaving Sky Sports.