Toto Wolff dismisses talk of a Verstappen switch, saying Mercedes is focused on its current drivers amid F1’s early transfer buzz.
Despite growing rumors, Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff is shutting down talk of advanced negotiations with Max Verstappen for a 2026 move.
As Red Bull faces increasing internal pressure, speculation is heating up over Verstappen’s future—especially with whispers of performance clauses that could give him a way out. Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes the signs are already there.
“Max is getting impatient—and rightly so. Marko is clearly worried about those performance clauses,” Schumacher told media. “I wouldn’t want to be in the room when they hold that emergency meeting at the factory.”
He added: “Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if talks are already happening behind the scenes. Red Bull is struggling to make this current car work, and remember, it was designed by Adrian Newey. Next year, we’ll have brand new engines and an all-new car. That’s a huge shift.”
Verstappen currently sits just 8 points ahead of Lando Norris in the drivers’ standings and missed the podium at the Chinese GP. When asked if Red Bull is now behind McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes, he gave a telling response:
“Looks like it,” he nodded.
Still, Verstappen insists he remains focused on helping Red Bull recover.
“People always talk. For me, nothing changes,” he said. “I’m relaxed, staying positive. Every time I get in the car, I push to do my best.”
While there were reports of a massive offer from Aston Martin, Dutch broadcaster Viaplay suggests it’s Mercedes F1 that could be leading the race for his signature.
Wolff, however, dismissed the chatter.
“No comment,” he said. “Silly season seems to be starting early this year! But we stand by our two drivers.”
Wolff’s faith may be well-placed. His young protégé, 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli, is already making waves in Lewis Hamilton’s former seat. He was voted Driver of the Day on Sunday, despite teammate George Russell scoring a second consecutive podium in 2025.
Russell’s contract ends this year, but many believe he’s been one of the standout performers of the season—alongside Verstappen.
“He’s delivering sensational drives,” Wolff said. “And the composure Kimi shows at just 18 is remarkable. We have no reason to make changes.”
So, would Wolff take Verstappen in 2026 if the opportunity came up?
“That question doesn’t apply right now,” he replied. “It’s not even a topic. We’re backing our drivers—they’re both exceptional.”
- Discover More>Ferrari Under Fire, But Bringing Key Upgrade for Japan
- Follow us on >Facebook and >Twitter for F1 updates
Wolff Shuts Down Verstappen Speculation for 2026
Wolff Shuts Down Verstappen Speculation for 2026
