Formula 1 never ceases to surprise. In a sport where rumors and speculation are as fast as the monoplays themselves, recent news has shaken the paddock: Ferrari would be secretly negotiating to sign the world champion, Max Verstappen, while doubts about Lewis Hamilton’s future in the Scuderia grow. This movement, if specified, could change the panorama of Formula 1 for 2027 and beyond, marking a new chapter in the rivalry between Red Bull and Ferrari, and leaving fans wondering what destination holds for two of the most iconic pilots of the grill.

The Italy Grand Prix was the perfect setting for Max Verstappen to remember the world why he is considered one of the best pilots of his generation. With a masterful performance, the 27 -year -old Dutch crossed the goal ahead of the McLaren of Lando Norris and Oscar Piestri, demonstrating that his talent remains intact despite the Altibajas of Red Bull this season. However, while celebrating on the podium, the conversations behind the scene already pointed to a possible team change that nobody expected.

According to Minardi, a legend of Formula 1 and former team director, Ferrari has started movements to attract Verstappen to their ranks. In an interview with Motorsport Italia, Minardi said: “I think Ferrari has taken steps in that direction. As for whether Verstappen will arrive, his own words – I am because I want to win,” they send a fairly negative signal towards Ferrari. ” These statements have generated a whirlwind of speculation, especially because Ferrari already has two star pilots: Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. However, the recent Hamilton performance, which has failed to adapt completely to the Scuderia car, has questioned its continuity beyond 2026.

The future of Verstappen in Red Bull, although secured for the 2026 season, is not exempt from uncertainty. Although the Dutchman signed a contract until 2028, the technical difficulties of Red Bull in recent months have fed rumors about possible exits. In 2025, McLaren has taken the lead in the Construction Championship, with Oscar Piestri leading the classification of pilots and Lando Norris following him closely. Verstappen, who is third with 205 points, has seen how his domain on the track vanishes at the problems of his car. Jos Verstappen, father of the pilot, added more intrigue by recently confirming to the Middle Viaplay: “We have had more conversations with other teams than usual.” These words have given wings to theories that Max’s future could be far from Milton Keynes.

Ferrari, meanwhile, is no stranger to bold movements. The arrival of Lewis Hamilton to the Scuderia in 2025 was a master coup, but the results of the seven -time world champion have not met expectations. At 40, Hamilton has faced criticism and even retirement orders, which has led some to speculate that Ferrari could be looking for a high caliber replacement. MINARDI, in his analysis, said: “In recent months there have been many conversations, including secret negotiations, pilot exchanges that did not reach anything, so everything is possible.” This comment reflects the controlled chaos that characterizes the pilot market in Formula 1, where long contracts are not always a guarantee of stability.

The possibility that Verstappen joins Ferrari is not only exciting for its sports impact, but also for what it would mean for the narrative of Formula 1. Verstappen and Hamilton, former rivals in the epic battle for the title of 2021, could share garage in Maranello, a scenario that just a few years ago seemed unthinkable. However, Minardi’s words suggest that Verstappen is not entirely convinced to make the leap: his priority is to compete with a winning car, and Ferrari, although competitive, has not yet proven to be able to overcome McLaren consistently.

On the other hand, Red Bull does not stay with crossed arms. The team has worked tirelessly to solve the problems of their car, and Verstappen has repeatedly expressed its commitment to the project, at least in the short term. In an exclusive interview with Sportbible during the Heineken Player 0.0 event in Madrid, the Dutchman talked about what motivates him to continue running: “Enjoy on the track, work with the team’s people and try to repeat that again and again. Winning a title is very gratifying, but it is also important to enjoy travel, races and time away from home”. These words show a Verstappen that, despite speculation, it continues to find motivation in their current environment.

However, Ferrari’s appeal is undeniable. The Scuderia is not just a team, it is a symbol of the history of motor racing, and its legacy seduces even the most successful pilots. The idea of ​​Verstappen dressed in red, competing under the flag of Maranello, is enough to accelerate the pulse of any fan. But what would this mean to Hamilton? The British, who arrived in Ferrari in the hope of conquering an eighth title, could be relegated if the Scuderia decides to prioritize Verstappen. Hamilton pressure to improve its performance in 2026 will be immense, especially if the rumors of negotiations with Verstappen intensify.

Another intriguing aspect is the incursion of Verstappen out of Formula 1. According to Auto Motor Und Sport, the Dutchman will participate in the Nürburgring Endurance Series, running with a Ferrari 296 GT3 for the Emil Frey Racing team. This movement, although not directly related to a change of equipment in Formula 1, has fed speculation about a deeper connection with Ferrari. Verstappen already established an unofficial record in Nordschleife with a Ferrari, and their participation in these careers could be a sign that it is exploring new opportunities, both inside and outside the highest category.

Meanwhile, in the paddock, the opinions are divided. Toto Wolff, Chief of Mercedes, did not miss the opportunity to praise Verstappen after his victory in Monza, which Minardi described as “unfortunate.” Wolff, who in the past tried to sign the Dutchman, seems to keep the door open for a possible movement to Mercedes in the future. However, the attention is now put on Ferrari, and fans cannot avoid imagining what it would be like to see Verstappen and Leclerc form an unbeatable pair in 2027.

The future of Formula 1 is full of uncertainty, but one thing is safe: the possibility that Max Verstappen will join Ferrari has lit a spark that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. While Hamilton struggles to recover his best version and Red Bull works to return to the top, secret negotiations and rumors will continue to feed the intrigue. Will Maranello be the next destination of the tetracampeon? Only time will say it, but in Formula 1, where everything is possible, this movement could redefine sport for a new era.