Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has acknowledged that a Formula 1 deal with Max Verstappen for the 2026 season is no longer feasible. Wolff’s comments follow Verstappen’s long-term contract extension with Red Bull Racing.
Mercedes had previously explored the possibility of signing Verstappen, particularly after Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari for the 2025 season.
Wolff had stated in 2025 there was a ’50 percent chance’ their paths would cross in Formula 1.
However, Verstappen’s current contract with Red Bull Racing reportedly extends until the end of the 2028 season.
This commitment has led Mercedes to finalize its driver pairing for the upcoming 2026 season.
Mercedes has confirmed George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli as their driver lineup for 2026.
Russell’s contract with the team extends through the 2026 season, following an extension signed in 2024.
Antonelli, a highly-rated Mercedes junior driver, has been promoted to a full-time F1 seat for 2026.
His rapid progression through junior categories and strong test performances led to this early graduation.
Wolff stated that the decision to continue with Russell and Antonelli was based on creating the ‘right, positive dynamic’ within the team.
He emphasized that this pairing allows both drivers, and the team, to grow.
Wolff also suggested that Verstappen’s decision to remain with Red Bull was logical.
‘Better the devil you know,’ Wolff commented, referencing the adage.
He did not entirely rule out a future collaboration with Verstappen, noting that contracts expire in two or three years.
This could potentially offer Verstappen multiple options at that time.
The Mercedes Team Principal also cited Lewis Hamilton’s extensive freedom during his tenure at Mercedes.
This served as an example of how the team supports drivers in maximizing their potential.
Wolff recalled an instance in 2018 where Hamilton traveled globally between races for a fashion launch.
This situation was questioned by Niki Lauda at the time.
Wolff’s philosophy is to enable drivers to perform at their best within the team’s structure.
This includes accommodating non-racing commitments.
Separately, Team Verstappen, managed by Jos Verstappen, competes in GT racing using Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars.
This collaboration in GT racing has been successful.
Toto Wolff expressed gratitude to Red Bull for their openness to this project.
