28/06/2025 09:40
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff confirmed during the opening day
of the Austrian Grand Prix that talks had taken place with Max
Verstappen over a possible move for 2026. The Silver Arrows
currently has both seats available for next season, due to George
Russell and Kimi Antonelli being in need of a new contract.
Russell revealed on media day at the Red Bull Ring that his own
contract talks with the Brackley-based team had been delayed by
conversations between Mercedes and Verstappen. Verstappen is
contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028, but has a contract
clause which he could activate this summer to leave at the
conclusion of the current campaign. That clause is believed to be
that if the Dutchman is outside the top three in the F1 drivers'
title fight around the summer break, he can leave the Austrian
outfit. Speculation has existed for months that Wolff remains eager
to sign the four-time world champion; however, this is the first
time it has been confirmed to this extent in public. Should
Mercedes sign Verstappen for next season? Have your say by voting
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