The queue for Max Verstappen's signature does not end at McLaren. According to GPFans, the leadership at both Mercedes and Aston Martin have made little secret of their desire to sign him for 2027, reportedly offering astronomical sums and guarantees of a competitive car.
For Mercedes, the interest is striking given the team is already running the two drivers leading the championship in Antonelli and Russell — a sign of how far a team will stretch its plans for a driver of Verstappen's calibre. For Aston Martin, armed with its incoming works engine partnership and a well-funded project, landing Verstappen would be the statement signing that transforms its standing overnight.
All of it remains conditional on Verstappen actually becoming available, which his Red Bull exit clause may or may not permit after Hungary. These are reported intentions, not signed terms. But two of the grid's biggest operations openly courting him — alongside McLaren — is why the 2027 market is holding its breath. Whatever Verstappen decides, several teams have made clear they'll be waiting.