Max Verstappen Mercedes “Love Triangle” after Exist F…see more
Mercedes team principal and chief executive Toto Wolff is at the centre of a high-profile “love triangle” after the Austrian Grand Prix provided gossip fuel that four-time world champion Max Verstappen could join Mercedes from Red Bull Racing.
Italy’s Sky reports “advanced talks” between Mercedes and Verstappen’s team, driven by an escape clause in his Red Bull contract in 2026. It is said to permit a change if Verstappen drops outside the top three placings by the summer recess—a prospect now increasingly likely as he lags behind McLaren’s Oscar Piastri . With McLaren convincingly in front for the 2025 season, Verstappen is third, 61 points behind.
Mercedes has been handling this potential switch as strategic to the 2026 regulation change. Toto Wolff conceded that negotiations are taking place, but does not go so far as to confirm that a transfer is imminent, instead that Mercedes is ready to have Verstappen “if the timing is right”.
In contrast, George Russell—whose 2026 deal is still unsigned—is showing optimism. He brushes off any seat threat and implies Mercedes’ interest in Verstappen will not disrupt his place . Russell has nonetheless thanked Wolff and is said to be on the cusp of signing a new deal, describing the chances of him leaving as “exceptionally low” .
Ever the strategist, Lewis Hamilton joined in on the conversation too. Looking back at his appreciation for Red Bull and their dominance, he openly urged Verstappen to look to Mercedes—stating that signing the Dutchman would be a “stunning recommendation” for the team .
Red Bull, on the other hand, have played down rumors. Principal Christian Horner dismissed the rumor-mill as “noise” and reasserted the commitment of Verstappen, while adviser Helmut Marko referred to continued departure fears but pointed to the driver’s loyalty towards the team .
In short, the F1 paddock is experiencing an earth-shattering soap opera for real: Verstappen’s Red Bull future, Mercedes’ hard-sell flirting, and the potential reshuffling of agreements in a sport-changing move.
