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Ralf Schumacher doubts Max Verstappen would fit at Mercedes

Conceptual AI-generated editorial motorsport illustration; not a documentary photograph or evidence that a pictured event, meeting or transfer occurred. · 2026-11-11GPBeat newsroom · News Made Clear generated illustration

Schumacher thinks Mercedes might not welcome Verstappen’s technical curiosity; Ferrari, he says, is more accustomed to drivers who make demands.

From the GPBeat newsroomPublished · · 1 min

Ralf Schumacher doubts Max Verstappen would be a natural fit at Mercedes, saying the Dutchman’s technical curiosity and wish to stay involved may be unwelcome there. Schumacher made the assessment on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast.

Schumacher described Verstappen as “technically minded” and said he wants to know what is happening with the gearbox and differential, even how a shock absorber works. He said Verstappen likes to be involved rather than leave such questions alone.

Schumacher said Verstappen grew up alongside Red Bull, while Mercedes is already a big team. He doubts Mercedes would welcome a driver like Verstappen. Ferrari, he said, is more used to drivers making demands, something he linked to what Michael Schumacher left behind at the team.

Verstappen recently extended his Red Bull contract through 2030.

Sources 01
  1. SOURCESchumacher: "Dat aspect van Verstappen ziet Mercedes niet zitten"RacingNews365 Nederland