– According to McLaren team principal Andrea Stella, a third car would be needed on the grid for Max Verstappen’s Papaya debut: “It would be a fascinating possibility, but we would have to start with a third car,” he said after qualifying in Spa.
Read more WRC Rally Estonia 2026: Sami Pajari has first WRC victory within reach
Of course, this is a joking statement from the engineer. After all, the question currently is whether the four-time world champion could start for McLaren in 2027.
F1: Belgian Grand Prix (Spa) 2026
“You don’t have to talk to me about that,” said Stella. “That is something for a higher political level, and if we can [field a third car], then we will consider that option.”
While Stella on the one hand confirms that they are anything but dissatisfied with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, the rumor mill around the Woking-based team is still buzzing. Verstappen’s evasive answers to questions about his future in the official press conference before the race weekend have only added fuel to the fire.
Read more IndyCar Nashville 2026 Qualifying: Mick Schumacher in Row 8
New rules turn traditional track into a slow course
When asked on Thursday whether he wanted to comment on his future in Formula 1, Verstappen finally answered briefly and clearly with “No,” and when asked what he thought about the numerous rumors surrounding his future, with “Nothing.”
The current situation in the drivers’ world championship also contributes to the lively speculation in the press. Verstappen actually has a contract with the Milton Keynes team until 2028. But seventh place in the championship standings could allow the four-time world champion to activate an exit clause.
At least on the Ardennes rollercoaster, Red Bull and McLaren are close together. Verstappen secured second place in Q3, closely followed by Norris in P3. Less than two tenths of a second separated the two at the end, although the reigning world champion will start the Grand Prix from 13th place due to a grid penalty.
Read more Esteban Ocon: My car is slower than Oliver Bearman’s!
