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

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff revealed that he considered the possibility of signing Max Verstappen, but is now pleased to secure George Russell’s future with the team. Verstappen confirmed that he will remain at Red Bull, thus dismissing speculation about a possible move to Mercedes for the 2026 season. Mercedes has not hidden its interest in the four-time world champion, which raised doubts about the continuity of Russell, whose contract ends at the end of this season. Wolff admitted that the possible availability of Verstappen, 27 years old, forced him to explore options.

I’ve always said 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 clarified that he was always transparent with Russell, indicating that the possibility of staying on the team was high, but that he needed to consider Verstappen. Now, with the situation defined, everything returns to normal.

Verstappen had a clause in his contract with Red Bull that can no longer be activated. Confirmation of his stay came after Christian Horner discovered that he had been removed as team principal and CEO of Red Bull. Russell achieved his sixth podium of the season at Hungaroring and has stood out in an inconsistent Mercedes car. Furthermore, he has taken on the leadership of the team alongside the 18-year-old Italian rookie Kimi Antonelli, following Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari. Hamilton, who won six of his seven world championships with Wolff at Mercedes, had a difficult weekend with Ferrari. The 40-year-old, disheartened driver suggested that Ferrari should change drivers, but Wolff is convinced that Hamilton will recover from his difficulties in his first season with the Italian team.

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 inward. Once this moment passes, they will return with the same motivation as always.

Toto Wolff

Formula 1 will implement new regulations for the upcoming season, with significant changes to the power units and aerodynamic rules, which will mark the end of the ground effect era, where Mercedes has struggled to compete with Red Bull and, this season, with McLaren. Wolff is optimistic about his team’s improvement next season and admitted that he would love to face Hamilton and Ferrari in a battle for the title.

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