Wolff Signals Low Probability of Verstappen Joining Mercedes
At the Austrian Grand Prix, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff clarified the team’s position regarding a potential signing of four-time champion Max Verstappen, stating that the likelihood remains "very low."
The discussions around Verstappen’s future have intensified, coinciding with uncertainty surrounding George Russell’s contract, which is due for renewal in 2026. Wolff acknowledged the importance of exploring opportunities with elite drivers but emphasized confidence in the existing line-up featuring Russell and rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli, whom he views as integral to Mercedes’ future.
"I think when you look at the situation we have with Kimi and George, we have a perfect line-up that we very much enjoy and that we believe is the future," Wolff stated during an interview with Sky Sports F1. He further noted, “As a team principal, you need to see where that is going… but I give it a very little probability that it’s going to happen.”
Wolff did not elaborate on how long the team would wait for a decision from Verstappen before finalizing contracts with their current drivers, reinforcing that Russell and Antonelli represent the direction Mercedes intends to follow.
This season, Russell has delivered notable performances, including his first grand prix win in Canada, prompting Wolff to praise his consistency: “We haven’t seen any mistakes. The pace was there. And there’s nothing to doubt in George."
As the 2026 contract decisions loom, Mercedes appears committed to its current driver strategy while keeping an eye on potential developments in the broader landscape of Formula 1.
