Toto Wolff shuts down speculation about Max Verstappen joining Mercedes, insisting the team remains committed to Russell and Antonelli for the future.
Mercedes has yet to lock in any drivers for the 2026 season, but team boss Toto Wolff isn’t in a rush. With George Russell and rising star Kimi Antonelli in the mix, he’s focused on their success.
Still, one question lingers: Is the door open for Max Verstappen to make a shock move to Mercedes?
Speaking in Melbourne, Wolff was quick to dismiss the idea.
“Already bringing up Max? We need to focus on our own drivers. I don’t look elsewhere if I’m happy with my lineup. And the season hasn’t even started yet.”
“Right now, there are no plans for that. My priority is to make sure George has clarity on his future and a contract soon.”
While contract talks with Russell are on hold for now, Wolff assured that “we’ll sort it out before summer, but without disrupting the season.”
Sitting beside him, Russell welcomed the reassurance but remained focused.
“Yeah, but I need to deliver! We’ve built a strong relationship based on trust, and our goal is to bring Mercedes back to the top, winning races and championships.”
McLaren the Team to Beat?
With pre-season testing wrapped up in Bahrain, both Wolff and Russell expect McLaren to be the early frontrunners.
“Testing is tricky to read,” Wolff admitted. “We saw some pace, but there was a gap to McLaren—everyone saw it.”
Will that speed carry over to Melbourne? Wolff isn’t sure but remains cautious.
“Right now, it’s a four-team battle. McLaren looks the strongest, [Lando] Norris is in top form, and Verstappen is always a threat. Hopefully, George and Kimi can fight for podiums and wins.”
For Mercedes, the focus is clear: forget the rumors, get back to the front, and let the results speak for themselves.
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Wolff Dismisses Verstappen Rumors: Focus Stays on Mercedes Wolff Dismisses Verstappen Rumors: Focus Stays on Mercedes
