Archive · 24 Jul 2025
Verstappen to Mercedes Unlikely, Toto Wolff Says Current Lineup Priority
Mercedes, a Formula 1 team, seems to have decided not to try and get Max Verstappen, a very good driver, to race for them.
The team's boss, Toto Wolff, said they want to keep their current drivers, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.
This likely means that Verstappen will stay with his current team, Red Bull, because his contract with them lasts until 2028.
The earliest he could leave is after the 2027 season.
So, no big changes are expected for now in terms of the team’s drivers.
Toto Wolff stated Mercedes' top priority is to retain George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.
Wolff's statement suggests Mercedes is no longer pursuing Max Verstappen.
Verstappen's Red Bull contract runs until 2028.
The earliest Verstappen could leave Red Bull is the end of the 2027 season.
Contract situations of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli were uncertain.
- Who
- Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, Max Verstappen, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.
- What
- Mercedes is prioritizing its current driver lineup, ending speculation about Max Verstappen joining the team.
- When
- The decision was made mid-season for the 2025 Formula 1 season.
- Where
- Brackley, the home of Mercedes F1 Team.
- Why
- To maintain their current driver lineup with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.
- Team
- Mercedes
- Team Principal
- Toto Wolff
- Current Drivers
- George Russell, Kimi Antonelli
- Verstappen's Contract
- Until 2028 with Red Bull
- Earliest Verstappen Departure
- End of 2027 season