Wolff shares KEY Verstappen update as Mercedes near decision

Mercedes team principal and CEO Toto Wolff has shared an update regarding the possibility of Max Verstappen joining the Silver Arrows.

The Brackley-based squad are searching for a replacement for Lewis Hamilton, following his announcement that he will join Ferrari for 2025.

READ MORE: Red Bull to host return of F1 race winner

With the sensational move blowing the driver market wide open, three-time champion Verstappen has been heavily linked with the vacant Mercedes seat in the wake of the drama surrounding Red Bull.

The 26-year-old, who is contracted to the Milton Keynes-based squad until 2028, is said to have a clause in that deal that allows him to leave the team if Helmut Marko does, with the saga surrounding Christian Horner leaving several Red Bull key figures’ futures in doubt.

Wolff: There are no driver talks taking place

Wolff has been vocal in the past about his desire to convince Verstappen to move to Mercedes and partner George Russell.

But speaking with the media in Spain, the Austrian revealed that there are no talks going on with the Red Bull driver.

“There are no talks that are taking place at that stage,” he said.

“I think we need to look at ourselves and on improving the car.”

READ MORE: Ex-F1 boss shares DISLIKE for Verstappen hobby

As well as Verstappen, the Silver Arrows have been linked with outgoing Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, although it now seems that the Spaniard has set his sights on either Williams or Audi, currently Sauber.

Italian teenage sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli is said to be the favourite to take Hamilton’s seat, having completed numerous tests in F1 machinery.

But Wolff reiterated that the team are in no rush to make a decision on their new driver.

“No driver decision has been made,” he added.

“We want to keep this decision as long as possible. Because who knows what happens?”

READ MORE: Where does Red Bull legend Adrian Newey shift to next?

Related

F1 News & Gossip

Wolff reveals Hamilton talks over STUNNING early exit

• December 17, 2024 20:00

Mercedes

Emotional Hamilton voice note REVEALED as Wolff bids farewell to F1 champion

• December 12, 2024 04:00