P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Will he? Won’t he? The speculation surrounding Max Verstappen joining Mercedes goes on.
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff aims to recruit Max Verstappen for the 2026 season, expressing interest in the talented driver amidst ongoing tensions at Red Bull. Verstappen has confirmed his commitment to Red Bull for the upcoming season, showcasing loyalty to his current team’s success under the existing regulations. However, the 2026 season brings significant rule changes, including the introduction of a new power unit, creating uncertainty around which team will lead the pack. Wolff hinted at Verstappen potentially replacing Lewis Hamilton in 2026, emphasizing the appeal of Mercedes’ upcoming developments in that year. Additionally, Mercedes junior Andrea Kimi Antonelli emerges as a potential candidate for the team, with Wolff considering his long-term potential in Formula 1. Mercedes is strategizing its driver lineup beyond 2025, keeping options open for future talent alongside existing partnerships.
