P1racenews AI automatic summary:
George Russell has granted his backing to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff’s public desire to partner Max Verstappen alongside him at the marque in Formula 1 from 2025. Mercedes is assessing the candidates to replace the Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton next term, but Wolff has expressed that Verstappen constitutes his leading option. The Dutchman retains a deal […]
Mercedes is considering candidates to replace Lewis Hamilton next season, with Toto Wolff indicating that Max Verstappen is their preferred choice due to his successful run with Red Bull. Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull extends until 2028, and he is currently on track to secure a fourth consecutive Drivers’ title this year with four wins in the first six races. Wolff aims to take advantage of the perceived power struggles within Red Bull to lure Verstappen away from the team.
George Russell, who has competed against Hamilton in recent years, expressed his eagerness to challenge the defending F1 champion and is open to sharing the track with Verstappen at Mercedes in 2022. Despite Mercedes trailing Red Bull by 175 points, Wolff believes there are other factors that could persuade Verstappen to make the move, including the 2026 rules reset and Adrian Newey’s impending departure from Red Bull.
Newey, the renowned F1 designer, will leave Red Bull in early 2025, potentially shifting the landscape of the team’s operations. Russell acknowledged the impact Newey’s exit could have on Red Bull and noted that changes can bring fresh opportunities for all parties involved. The dynamic shifts in the F1 landscape hint at a potential reshuffle of top talents, prompting anticipation among fans and pundits alike.
