P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has insisted Mercedes could be an “attractive” Formula 1 move for Max Verstappen, despite admitting it won’t transpire in 2025. Wolff has gone public on several occasions with his desire to prise Verstappen to Mercedes at some stage as Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton’s long-term replacement. But while Mercedes CEO Ola Kallenius […]
Wolff has publicly expressed his desire to bring Verstappen to Mercedes, possibly as a replacement for Hamilton in the future. Despite this, Verstappen has announced that he will stay with Red Bull for the upcoming season. His lead in the standings with the RB20 has been impressive, but competition is expected to tighten with new technical regulations in 2026. Wolff sees this as an opportunity for Mercedes to attract Verstappen to make a switch. However, uncertainty remains about Verstappen’s contractual situation with Red Bull and advisor Helmut Marko. While Wolff aims to make Mercedes an appealing destination for top drivers, Red Bull’s Horner and Marko are steadfast in their belief that Verstappen will stay as long as he has a competitive car and feels content.
