OFFICIAL: Toto Wolff Announces SHOCK Max Verstappen…read more
In one of the most explosive revelations of the 2025 Formula 1 season, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has confirmed that the team is actively pursuing reigning World Champion Max Verstappen in what could be one of the biggest driver moves in F1 history.
Speaking during a press conference ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Wolff dropped the bombshell that Mercedes has made a formal approach to Verstappen, describing him as the “natural choice” to lead Mercedes into the highly anticipated 2026 regulation overhaul. The Silver Arrows are preparing a completely redesigned car for the new era of F1—and want Verstappen at the heart of it.
“We are looking at the long-term future of Mercedes,” Wolff stated. “We want a driver who can win races and titles, and Max Verstappen is clearly at the top of that list. We’ve had discussions. We know it won’t be easy—but we’re serious.”
This announcement comes amid growing tension inside Red Bull Racing, with recent reports suggesting Verstappen has become increasingly frustrated with internal politics, the ongoing Christian Horner controversy, and strategic errors that have cost the team crucial points. Rumors of a possible exit clause in his contract—linked to advisor Helmut Marko’s position—have only intensified speculation.
If Verstappen does agree to leave Red Bull, it would mark a seismic shift in Formula 1’s balance of power. The 3-time world champion has been the face of Red Bull’s dominance since 2021, but Mercedes, desperate to return to championship-winning form, sees him as the key to a new golden era.
Insiders suggest that Verstappen has not ruled out the possibility and has been impressed by Mercedes’ long-term vision, which includes cutting-edge engine development and a major reshuffle of its technical department for 2026.
No official confirmation has come from Verstappen’s camp, but Wolff’s public statement is seen as a bold and deliberate move to pressure Red Bull—and lure their star away. The move would also reunite Wolff’s team with a major rival they once clashed with fiercely, particularly during the heated 2021 title fight between Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.
With George Russell’s future uncertain and Hamilton now fully committed to Ferrari, Mercedes is clearly preparing for a new chapter. And if Max Verstappen does make the switch, it would go down as one of the most sensational driver moves in modern Formula 1 history.
