P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Several drivers are being linked to the vacant seat at Mercedes following Lewis Hamilton’s shock announcement that he will leave the team at the end of the year. Toto Wolff has responded to the suggestion that Max Verstappen could be a contender.
Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, responded to the suggestion of Max Verstappen potentially replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next year. While Verstappen has a long-term contract with Red Bull until 2028, Wolff did not rule out the possibility of exploring conversations with the Dutchman. However, he emphasized that Mercedes will respect existing contracts. Red Bull advisor, Dr Helmut Marko, has already suggested that he expects Mercedes to try and entice Verstappen away. Wolff acknowledged that Verstappen has a long-term future with Red Bull but stated that drivers always want to be in the fastest cars, and it is up to Mercedes to prove they can build the fastest car.
