P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes still an option? Verstappen ditches Red Bull entourage for Toto Wolff meeting
Four-time F1 champion Max Verstappen was spotted chatting with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff during the Qatar Grand Prix weekend, leaving fans intrigued by their animated conversation.
The pair’s interaction, captured in a clip from F1TV, drew attention on social media, with followers eager to know the content of their discussion.
While it may seem suspicious for a team principal and rival driver to be engaged in such intense dialogue, F1 being a close-knit sport and their history of being on friendly terms could explain it.
Although Wolff tried to lure Verstappen to Mercedes in the past, the Dutch driver confirmed his commitment to Red Bull until 2026 earlier this year, leaving his future uncertain.
With new regulations reshaping the championship in 2026, Verstappen’s decision to stay or leave may hinge on the competitiveness of his Red Bull, casting a spotlight on any interactions with Wolff about a potential move.
