Wolff secures Russell’s future at Mercedes after ruling out Verstappen

Wolff Confirms: Russell Secures His Future at Mercedes After Conversations with Verstappen

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has confirmed that George Russell will continue with the team, after speculation about a possible signing of Max Verstappen generated uncertainty. Verstappen, who recently confirmed his stay at Red Bull, was considered a possible star signing for Mercedes, which led Wolff to evaluate all possible options.

I’ve always said that I’m happy with my team, with Russell and Kimi Antonelli, but suddenly Max’s future became uncertain, so we also talked to him.

Toto Wolff

Wolff admitted that, given the possibility of having Verstappen in the team, it was necessary to explore the situation. However, now that Verstappen has confirmed his continuity with Red Bull, Russell secures his place at Mercedes. Russell, who achieved his sixth podium of the season at Hungaroring, has demonstrated consistent performance in a Mercedes car with ups and downs, taking on a leadership role alongside the young Italian driver Kimi Antonelli, following the departure of Lewis Hamilton.

Verstappen’s confirmation of staying with Red Bull came after speculation about his future in the team. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton, who has struggled in his debut season with Ferrari, has expressed his frustration, but Wolff is confident that the seven-time world champion will recover.

It’s a characteristic of the greats: if they know they haven’t lived up to expectations, they don’t blame the team, but look within themselves. Once this moment has passed, they will return with the same motivation as always.

Toto Wolff

With the new Formula 1 regulations for next season, which include significant changes to the power units and aerodynamics, Wolff is optimistic about the future of Mercedes and expects a title battle with Ferrari and Hamilton.

Seeing Ferrari against Mercedes would be fantastic. I have no doubt that this duel will happen, next year or in the future. We will experience it and it will be fantastic.

Toto Wolff