The head of Mercedes Formula 1, Toto Wolff, indicates that prioritizing George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli for the 2026 season remains “absolutely paramount” even amidst conversations involving Max Verstappen’s representatives.
Recent reports have suggested that Verstappen’s team has engaged with Wolff to explore potential future opportunities, considering the driver is evaluating options to ensure he remains in a competitive vehicle moving forward.
Verstappen’s current agreement with Red Bull extends through 2028; however, it contains several exit clauses that can be exercised during the approaching summer recess, as well as in the subsequent year. The departure of essential personnel from Red Bull, coupled with apparent challenges in significantly improving the existing car’s deficiencies, and the uncertainties surrounding the team’s 2026 in-house power unit development, raise doubts about Red Bull’s long-term capacity to compete for titles.
Nonetheless, the unknown factors for 2026 are relevant across all teams, making it seemingly more probable that Verstappen will opt to wait and assess which team demonstrates the most promising start in the new era before deciding on a radical change.
Despite this, the situation has introduced an element of drama to the driver market, with Russell, a current Mercedes driver, awaiting confirmation as he aims to secure an extension to his soon-to-expire contract. Antonelli, a rookie, also necessitates formal confirmation for the 2026 season.
Speaking on Austrian television, Wolff of Mercedes emphasized that retaining Russell and Antonelli is his “absolute priority,” while also dismissing the likelihood of any “major surprises” during the summer break.
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, George Russell, Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images via Getty Images
“Ongoing discussions have transpired over the course of recent weeks and months, ensuring everyone remains well-informed,” Wolff stated.
“Our intended course of action is clear: we aim to continue with both George and Kimi. That stands as the utmost priority. Nevertheless, one cannot dismiss the potential of someone like Max and his future plans. We have considered this, but I do not anticipate any significant surprises.”
Wolff expressed amusement regarding rumors, initiated by Ralf Schumacher, a former F1 driver currently serving as a commentator, suggesting that he and Verstappen had encountered each other while vacationing between the British and Belgian Grand Prix, as both were in Sardinia, Italy. Certain fan accounts even fabricated images depicting Wolff supposedly boarding Verstappen’s private aircraft.
“The novelty lies in the emergence of photo collages featuring airplanes, which is a first,” Wolff remarked.
“However, proximity during vacations does not necessarily imply collaboration in Formula 1. We have historically maintained a positive relationship, and coincidentally, we share preferences for vacation destinations.”
Wolff’s remarks do not entirely dismiss the possibility of Verstappen joining for 2027 and beyond, suggesting that uncertainty lingers concerning the specific duration of Russell’s contract renewal, who may be seeking a firm, long-term commitment.
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