P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has disclosed there will be “no big surprises” with the team’s 2026 F1 driver line-up as he ruled out a move to sign Max Verstappen.
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has ruled out signing Max Verstappen for 2026, indicating a desire to maintain the current Formula 1 line-up. Speculation about Verstappen moving to Mercedes arose after discussions with George Russell were made public. Verstappen’s uncertain future at Red Bull raises questions about Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s seats beyond 2025. However, Wolff has confirmed the plan to keep Russell and Antonelli for the upcoming regulation change. Despite rumors of a meeting on an Italian island, Wolff denies any intention of signing Verstappen, emphasizing the coincidence of their vacation location. The priority for Mercedes remains to continue with Russell and Antonelli, ensuring transparency with the drivers.
