P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes has ramped up its bid to entice Max Verstappen to come to its Formula 1 team, with CEO Ola Kallenius admitting that he desires to see a move materialise. The German marque will have a revised driver line-up next season amid Lewis Hamilton’s choice earlier this year to agree upon a blockbuster switch to […]
Mercedes is set to have a revised driver lineup next season due to Lewis Hamilton’s decision to switch to Ferrari in 2025. Team boss Toto Wolff aims to acquire Verstappen, who currently leads the championship, but the Dutchman is committed to Red Bull until 2028. However, Mercedes CEO Kallenius sees the 2026 regulation changes as an opportunity to return to the top and attract Verstappen. Wolff hinted that if Verstappen stays with Red Bull, Mercedes prospect Andrea Kimi Antonelli could partner George Russell. The decision to overlook outgoing Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz is part of Mercedes’ long-term strategy. Wolff has not made a final decision on who will replace Hamilton, waiting to see how the Verstappen situation unfolds.
