P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Wolff: Mercedes F1 relationship with Verstappen "needs to happen at a certain stage"
News of Hamilton’s move to Ferrari for 2025 came as a surprise, leading to Verstappen considering staying with Red Bull until 2028. Controversy surrounding Christian Horner prompted Jos Verstappen to suggest Red Bull would suffer if Horner stayed. Speculation on Helmut Marko’s role and a ‘Marko clause’ in Verstappen’s contract added to the uncertainty. Rumors suggest Verstappen might replace Hamilton at Mercedes due to engine program differences. Mercedes expressed interest in Verstappen, but the decision depends on his actions in the coming months. Wolff disclosed that Verstappen had a chance to join Mercedes in the past but chose Red Bull instead.
