Rachel Brookes Dismisses Verstappen Rumors Amid Sky F1 Departure

Rachel Brookes has set the record straight regarding her recent departure from Sky F1, denying any link to online abuse she faced after interviewing Max Verstappen. Brookes, who parted ways with the broadcaster after a decade, insisted that the unpleasant episode was resolved promptly and had no bearing on her decision to leave. Instead, Brookes emphasized her positive relationship with Verstappen, even suggesting that he might be plotting an escape from Red Bull, potentially to join Mercedes.

Brookes shared her thoughts on the Essential F1 podcast, debunking rumors that her exit was related to the fallout from a 2025 interview with Verstappen following a controversial collision with George Russell in Barcelona. "It was nothing to do with comments and abuse I got online last year at all," Brookes clarified. "That was resolved very quickly, and I’ve got a great relationship with Max. So absolutely nothing to do with that."

Speculation about Verstappen's future has been rife, particularly due to a performance-related exit clause in his Red Bull contract. Currently sitting sixth in the championship, Verstappen could activate this clause if he doesn't find himself in the top two. While there has been chatter about a possible move to McLaren, Brookes believes Mercedes might be his next destination. "I still think Max is looking for an exit," Brookes said, pointing out his desire to return to winning ways. "He doesn’t want to have to show that he can get a car that should be 10th up to second. He wants to be winning races again."

Toto Wolff, Mercedes' team principal, has made it clear that he's content with the current lineup of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell. However, Brookes speculates that Verstappen's addition could be a tempting prospect for Wolff, who might see it as a coup to lure him away from Red Bull. Brookes added, "I think Max will go to Mercedes alongside Antonelli. It’s just in my head still. Toto missed out on him before. I think that still bugs him."

Despite Brookes' predictions, Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has assured that Verstappen is committed to the team, provided the car remains competitive. "Max has made clear to us that he wants to continue with the team. It’s equally clear that he needs a fast car for him to be happy," Mekies stated.

While the future remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Rachel Brookes' exit from Sky F1 had nothing to do with Verstappen or the online backlash she received. Her departure marks the end of an era with the broadcaster, as she moves on to new challenges.