The potential transfer would cause a major domino effect across the grid. Piastri is reportedly linked to a Red Bull seat to replace Verstappen.
>>> New Data Studies Reveal Luckiest US Lottery States and Cities
Schumacher stated that Red Bull began seeking alternatives after losing trust during the Austrian race weekend.
"From what I understand, people at Red Bull also took it very badly that Max Verstappen did not make it clear at the Red Bull Ring, when everyone was there, that he would waive this exit clause," he said.
Schumacher further noted that Verstappen originally intended to stay committed to the Milton Keynes-based team. Recent performance and internal relationship struggles have degraded that commitment.
"I think Max believed in the project until the very end and genuinely did not want to leave Red Bull.
I say that deliberately, although it is only my personal feeling. That's why there are really no excuses left," Schumacher added.
Sky Sports pundit Martin Brundle compared the potential paddock shake-up to Lewis Hamilton's high-profile team switch. He suggested a new environment could revitalize the Dutch driver.
"I think if he could go, he will go at some point, whether it's 2027 or 2028, and do something fresh for him.
We see drivers do that.
We saw Lewis Hamilton do that, for example, and get a reset and a new challenge after a very long time in a team," said Brundle.
The driver market shifts could additionally impact Alpine.
>>> The Voice of Holland Faces Major Coach Shakeup Amid Belgium Merger
Executive advisor Flavio Briatore is reportedly considering bringing back Fernando Alonso from Aston Martin, which would subsequently open a seat for Pierre Gasly.
