Hamilton holds key to Wolff contract as Mercedes official ann…. read more
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton may have left Mercedes for Ferrari, but his influence within the Silver Arrows team appears far from over. The British racing legend recently joked about his continued impact in the Mercedes camp, just as the team prepares to confirm its 2026 driver line-up under team principal Toto Wolff.
Toto Wolff, the longtime Mercedes boss, has been vocal about his interest in potentially signing Red Bull’s star driver Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion, especially after a turbulent start to the 2025 season. However, as the Formula 1 world turns its attention to the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps this weekend, that high-profile move seems unlikely to materialize anytime soon.
In recent comments to Austrian media, Wolff indicated that Mercedes is leaning toward maintaining stability in its driver pairing for 2026. That means keeping George Russell alongside rising talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who has impressed the team with his development and professionalism since stepping up.
Although Wolff appears ready to stick with his current duo, speculation around Verstappen joining the team in the future continues to swirl. Many in the paddock believe the Dutch driver could still find his way to Mercedes in 2027 or later, once the significant rule changes for the 2026 season have been fully implemented and the new technical era begins to settle.
Amid the growing anticipation, the media got a chance to ask Antonelli directly about his contract status during Thursday’s FIA press conference ahead of the Belgian GP. Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft posed a cheeky question to the Italian rookie, asking whether his deal would cover just one year or extend for two seasons.
“That’s the one million dollar question,” Antonelli replied with a grin, prompting Croft to quip, “Is that how much you’re getting paid, one million dollars?”
Before the 18-year-old could fully respond, Lewis Hamilton jumped in with a light-hearted comment from across the room: “I’ll help you with the contract, I know how to work Toto, don’t worry.”
Hamilton’s witty remark reminded everyone of his deep understanding of Wolff’s management style, having spent over a decade working with the Austrian team principal and bringing Mercedes six constructors’ titles and numerous victories during their partnership.
Despite the friendly exchange, Antonelli remained composed and confident when speaking seriously about his current situation. He reassured reporters that he’s fully aware of where he stands within the team and isn’t concerned about the ongoing speculation.
“I’ve never been worried, to be honest,” Antonelli said. “I understand the team’s vision and what they’re aiming for, especially with an eye on the future.”
He also appreciated Wolff’s recent clarity in addressing the driver situation. “It’s encouraging to hear Toto speak openly. It gives a sense of stability,” he added.
Antonelli emphasized that his relationship with teammate George Russell is strong, and both drivers are committed to pushing Mercedes back to the front of the grid after a challenging couple of seasons.
“The lineup is solid. George and I are working together really well. We’re focused on helping the team regain performance, and there’s a lot of collaboration happening behind the scenes,” the Italian youngster explained.
As discussions continue behind closed doors, Antonelli appears confident that he has done enough to secure his place. “I feel like I’m in a very good position. I’m focused on continuing to deliver and contribute to the team,” he concluded.
With a decision from Mercedes expected soon, all eyes will remain on Wolff, but it’s clear that Hamilton’s presence — even from afar — still resonates in the Mercedes garage.
