Mercedes hints at Verstappen move for 2026 after confirming Antonelli for 2025
MONZA, Italy -- Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has hinted at the possibility of signing three-time world champion Max Verstappen in 2026.
Saturday saw the confirmation that Italian teenage sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli, part of Mercedes' academy, will replace the Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton next year. This move, while anticipated, comes after a period of intense speculation.
"Obviously we were discussing other options, and obviously the Max idea couldn't be discounted completely looking at what happened at Red Bull," Wolff remarked during the announcement. "But instinctively that is the line-up with these two that I always wanted."
The official statement about Antonelli’s promotion only mentioned the 2025 season, while his future teammate George Russell remains contracted until the end of next year.
Verstappen, who is currently tied to Red Bull until 2028, has been a subject of interest for Mercedes. Sources have indicated that his father, Jos Verstappen, is eager for Max to join Mercedes at the earliest possible moment. Performance clauses in his contract may provide an opportunity for an earlier exit, keeping Wolff’s hopes alive.
Wolff has assured that both Antonelli and Russell will be kept informed of any developments related to Verstappen. "So you know what I appreciate also in dealing with them is they're straightforward and transparent," Wolff commented when asked about his interactions with Jos Verstappen and Max's agent, Raymond Vermuelen—a topic that made headlines ahead of the Italian Grand Prix.
"I don't flirt outside,” Wolff continued. “I've always said it. I got maybe caught out by the Lewis situation, but I have not entertained any discussions with any drivers. We're giving all from the team to make it a success, and this is why all of our focus in the team is on George and Kimi. And that's where I also stand. There is no discussion, there are no second thoughts about what we're doing in 2026 because now it's about 2024 and 2025.
“And if flirting outside happens, then [Antonelli and Russell] will know it. These guys will know it before me, these guys will know it at the same time. When we have those discussions, I've always been open."
Mercedes' alignment for the coming years appears focused yet open to the evolving driver market landscape. As Wolff positions the team with a youthful shuffle, fans eagerly anticipate the unfolding storyline leading up to 2026.
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