Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff revealed that he seriously considered the possibility of signing Max Verstappen, but now feels satisfied with George Russell’s continuity in the team. Verstappen confirmed his stay at Red Bull, ruling out any move to Mercedes for the 2026 season, which put an end to speculation about a possible team change.
Wolff admitted that the possible availability of Verstappen, 27 years old, forced him to consider all options. However, he clarified that he always maintained transparent communication with Russell, assuring him of his continuity in 90% of the cases. Verstappen’s decision to stay at Red Bull has cleared the way and allowed everything to return to normal at Mercedes.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
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton, who won six of his seven world championships with Wolff at Mercedes, had a complicated weekend with Ferrari. Wolff was convinced that Hamilton will overcome the difficulties in his first season with the Italian team.
Formula 1 will implement new regulations for the next season, with important changes in the power units and aerodynamic rules. Wolff hopes that his team will be more competitive next year and expressed his desire to compete for the title against Hamilton and Ferrari.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
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
