Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has strongly suggested that his preferred driver line-up for the 2026 season includes George Russell and young talent Kimi Antonelli. This statement comes amid ongoing speculation that Max Verstappen might switch from Red Bull to Mercedes. Although there have been confirmed conversations between Mercedes and Verstappen, Wolff emphasized that the team’s current plan is to stick with Russell and Antonelli moving forward.
With George Russell’s contract set to expire and no official announcements yet, rumors intensified ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix. Wolff was asked whether a Verstappen-Russell pairing was possible for 2026. He dismissed the idea as far-fetched, stressing that Mercedes wants to continue with its current drivers. He jokingly likened a Verstappen-Russell duo to the iconic Prost-Senna rivalry, implying it would be an intense dynamic but is not a realistic scenario.
Russell has remained confident that he will continue with Mercedes beyond 2025, pointing to his long-standing relationship with the team. Wolff reiterated this connection, explaining how Mercedes invests early in young drivers without expecting financial backing from families or sponsors. This long-term development model, similar to Red Bull’s, has been crucial in building trust and loyalty with drivers like Russell.
Wolff also clarified that financial concerns are not delaying contract decisions. Instead, he attributed the delay to normal negotiations, noting that drivers always seek better equipment and higher pay. He downplayed the media’s pressure, saying such delays and discussions are typical during contract renewals and do not indicate any crisis or major roadblock in finalizing deals.
Ultimately, Wolff’s remarks appear to close the door — at least for now — on the possibility of bringing in Verstappen. While Mercedes remains a top destination for any driver, the team principal’s commitment to Russell and Antonelli signals a clear focus on developing homegrown talent and maintaining team stability rather than pursuing high-profile transfers.
About the Author
