P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff’s latest remarks about the prospect of signing Max Verstappen for 2025 are a clear escalation of his pursuit of the world champion
Mercedes Formula 1 team boss Toto Wolff is publicly expressing interest in Max Verstappen to potentially partner with George Russell next season, if Verstappen becomes available. Verstappen, under contract with Red Bull until 2028, has faced uncertainties due to off-track issues within his current team. Wolff, a long-time admirer of Verstappen, has openly welcomed him to Mercedes amid speculations about his future. While Verstappen’s departure from Red Bull remains uncertain, Wolff has hinted at considering other drivers like Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Fernando Alonso, and Carlos Sainz for the team’s vacant seat alongside Russell. Despite the interest in Verstappen, Wolff emphasizes the need for Mercedes to present a compelling argument beyond team unity to attract the world champion.
