Formula 1’s silly season has been wild this year, as fans and experts expected Max Verstappen to possibly leave Red Bull for Mercedes. But after weeks of speculation and endless rumors, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has finally revealed that Verstappen is not joining Mercedes and that George Russell and Kimi Antonelli are the team’s “top priority”.
The Toto Wolff Statement: Settling The Rumours
During the summer break, questions about Mercedes’ 2026 driver lineup were at an all-time high. There were wild theories about secret meetings, pilots on private jets, and even photoshopped images showing Wolff and Verstappen vacationing together. But fans can now relax as Wolff has confirmed his plans.
“Discussions have been taking place over the last weeks and months, so they are all up to date,” Wolff said. “The direction of travel is definitely that we want to continue with George [Russell] and Kimi [Antonelli]. That is the absolute priority. But you can’t look past someone like Max and the plans he has for the future. We did that, but I don’t think there will be any big surprises”.
So, despite all the drama, the door at Mercedes is closed for Max Verstappen, and the focus stays on their current and future stars.
Why Isn’t Max Verstappen Moving?
Contract Commitment: Verstappen has a long-term deal with Red Bull that runs for several more years.
Mercedes Priorities: Toto Wolff has clearly stated that George Russell and Kimi Antonelli are the main focus for their 2026 plans.
Rumor Mill vs. Reality: There was even a rumor about Toto Wolff and Verstappen meeting in Sardinia, which Wolff laughed off, explaining that vacationing near each other doesn’t mean teaming up in F1.
Both Russell and Antonelli are seen as the team’s future. So, don’t believe every rumor you read. Toto Wolff has made it clear, Mercedes’ priority is homegrown stars, not stealing champions from rivals.
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