Wolff secures Russell’s future at Mercedes after Verstappen’s decision

Wolff Secures Russell’s Future After Conversations with Verstappen

Toto Wolff, Mercedes team principal, revealed that he explored the possibility of signing Max Verstappen, but is now focused on securing George Russell’s continuity in the team. The confirmation that Verstappen will remain at Red Bull ended speculation about a possible transfer to Mercedes for the 2026 season. Wolff admitted that the uncertainty about Verstappen’s future forced him to consider the situation. “I have always said that I am happy with my team, with Russell and Kimi Antonelli, but suddenly Max’s future became uncertain, so we also spoke with him,” Wolff declared.

“But I have always been very clear with George: 90% of the time he would stay with us, but he needed to talk to Verstappen as well. Now the situation is clear, and everything can go back to normal.”

Toto Wolff

Verstappen had a clause in his contract with Red Bull that can no longer be activated. The confirmation of his stay came 23 days after Christian Horner found out he had been dismissed as team principal and CEO of Red Bull. Russell, for his part, achieved his sixth podium of the season at Hungaroring and has stood out in an inconsistent Mercedes car. In addition, he has assumed a leadership role in the team alongside the 18-year-old Italian rookie, Kimi Antonelli, following Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari. Hamilton, who won six of his seven world championships with Wolff at Mercedes, had a difficult weekend for the Scuderia and described himself as “useless” after qualifying. Wolff, however, 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 within themselves. Once this moment passes, they will return with the same motivation as always,” said Wolff.

Toto Wolff

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

“Seeing Ferrari against Mercedes would be fantastic,” added Wolff. “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