Red Bull linked with extraordinary move for McLaren F1 star: “It’s happened before”
In what could become one of the most shocking twists of the 2026 Formula 1 season, Red Bull Racing have reportedly been linked with a bold move for a McLaren star — a scenario that could reshape the driver market in dramatic fashion.
At the center of the speculation is rising Australian talent Oscar Piastri, who has emerged as a potential replacement should Max Verstappen decide to leave Red Bull amid growing uncertainty surrounding his future.
A storm building around Verstappen
The rumors don’t come out of nowhere. Verstappen’s situation has become one of the biggest talking points in the paddock. The four-time world champion has reportedly grown frustrated with Red Bull’s performance under the new 2026 regulations and has even been linked with a possible early exit — or in extreme reports, retirement considerations. �
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Adding fuel to the fire is the confirmed departure of his long-time race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase, who is set to join McLaren in the coming years. This relationship has been crucial to Verstappen’s dominance, and its eventual end has intensified speculation about his long-term commitment. �
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Internally, Red Bull has also been dealing with a wave of high-profile exits, creating an atmosphere of instability that could push even their biggest star toward the exit door.
Why Piastri?
If Verstappen were to leave, Red Bull would need a driver capable of stepping into enormous pressure — and Piastri fits the bill.
The young McLaren driver has impressed with his composure, race craft, and rapid development, forming part of one of the strongest driver lineups on the grid. His performances alongside Lando Norris have not gone unnoticed, and insiders believe Red Bull see him as a long-term project capable of leading the team into a new era.
“It’s happened before”
The phrase attached to the rumor — “it’s happened before” — is particularly significant. Formula 1 has a long history of top teams poaching elite talent from rivals when major changes occur.
We’ve seen similar moves in the past:
Drivers switching teams at the peak of their careers
Engineers and technical masterminds crossing over between rivals
Entire team dynamics shifting almost overnight
In fact, McLaren themselves have previously benefited from talent acquired from Red Bull, including key personnel moves that helped strengthen their current structure. �
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This context makes the current speculation feel less like fantasy — and more like a realistic possibility if the Verstappen domino falls.
The bigger picture
For now, it’s important to stress that no deal has been confirmed. Piastri remains under contract with McLaren, and Verstappen is still officially tied to Red Bull.
However, Formula 1 is a sport where situations evolve rapidly. Contracts include clauses, negotiations happen behind closed doors, and one major move often triggers a chain reaction across the grid.
If Verstappen were to leave — whether to McLaren, Mercedes, or even out of the sport — Red Bull would have no choice but to act aggressively in the driver market.
And that’s where Piastri enters the conversation.
What happens next?
All eyes are now on:
Verstappen’s performance and mindset in the coming races
Red Bull’s ability to recover competitiveness
McLaren’s willingness to protect their rising star
Because if things continue on their current trajectory, this “extraordinary move” may go from rumor… to reality faster than anyone expects.
One thing is certain: the 2026 F1 season is no longer just about racing — it’s about a potential driver market earthquake.