Max Verstappen could be tempted by a Williams switch in 2026 as major F1 regulations reshape the grid

Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 has been the subject of much speculation, with the Dutch driver currently signed to Red Bull Racing until the end of the 2028 season. However, a surprising theory has emerged, suggesting that if Verstappen were to leave Red Bull, Williams could be a potential destination, according to leading pundit Marc Priestley.

Verstappen, who has dominated F1 in recent years with Red Bull, has been linked to Mercedes in the past, particularly when speculation arose over the future of Lewis Hamilton. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff made no secret of his admiration for Verstappen, and many saw the Dutchman as the perfect successor to Hamilton. However, those rumours have since quieted as Verstappen distanced himself from the idea, and Mercedes opted for rookie Kimi Antonelli for 2025.

Despite this, the possibility of Verstappen changing teams in the future cannot be ruled out. A major shift in F1 regulations is set for 2026, with new chassis and power unit rules that could cause a reshuffle of the competitive order. This has raised questions about Red Bull’s ability to maintain its dominance, especially since they will be introducing a brand-new power unit of their own design for the first time. While Red Bull Powertrains may succeed in the challenge, they lack the experience of rival manufacturers like Mercedes and Ferrari.

If Verstappen does decide to explore a fresh challenge in F1, another team that could be in the running for his signature is Aston Martin. The Silverstone-based team has secured Adrian Newey, the architect of Verstappen’s title-winning machines, and will switch to the Honda power unit that has brought Verstappen much success. However, an even more unexpected contender has emerged: Williams.

Under the leadership of James Vowles and with the backing of US owners Dorilton Capital, Williams is undergoing a quiet but steady transformation. Once languishing at the back of the grid, the team has made significant strides and is now firmly in the midfield. With strong investment and a clear vision for the future, Williams is building towards the 2026 regulations with high expectations.

Priestley, a former McLaren mechanic and current F1 pundit, believes that Verstappen could find Williams an attractive option. He noted that the driver market in F1 is increasingly complicated as teams prepare for the 2026 overhaul, and Verstappen will be evaluating which team has the potential to produce the best car.

“Williams, under Vowles’ leadership, are putting a lot of effort into being a top contender come 2026,” Priestley said. “They could end up being a team that challenges at the very top, similar to McLaren’s rise. It’s a tough call for Verstappen, but Williams might just be an opportunity for him if he wants a new challenge.”

This surprising theory raises eyebrows in the F1 world. Could Max Verstappen, a driver who has become synonymous with Red Bull’s success, make the bold move to a team on the rise? If Williams continues its progress, the idea of Verstappen joining them in 2026 may not be as far-fetched as it once seemed.