Did Verstappen spy a long-term contract with Mercedes? This is what Wolff says

Toto Wolff remains realistic about the chances of bringing Verstappen in for 2025, as the possibility of Max Verstappen leaving Red Bull Racing early continues to occupy minds in the Formula One paddock, but thinks Mercedes is "in a good position" for the new engine regulations in 2026.

During the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, Wolff again openly expressed his interest in Verstappen. The Mercedes team boss claimed that the Dutchman had enough depth to look beyond the material currently available to F1 teams. This led to irritation from Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner, who believes Wolff does talk a lot about the triple world champion.

Wolff: 'Verstappen must look to the future'

Wolff suggests that "nobody can sell anything" to Max and Jos Verstappen and manager Raymond Vermeulen. However, he does stress that Mercedes are in a "very good position" for when the new engine regulations come into force in 2026. "I believe it is a question of how the future is best for them. Considering a lot of factors."

He continued: "I think we're in a very good position for 2026. We're ambitious with the targets we set ourselves for the power unit, for the batteries, for the fuel. And I think if we're able to produce a decent chassis, we're a good value proposition. But who knows?"

Talks between Verstappen and Mercedes

Wolff acknowledges having held talks with several drivers about Lewis Hamilton's seat that becomes vacant next year. These included interest in Fernando Alonso, who recently signed a multi-year contract with Aston Martin. Asked if there have been talks with Verstappen about a multi-year contract, he declined. "You have conversations with many drivers. Exploring the opportunities. So, that isn't in a way surprising. As for Max, no. We're not at the point where we would have discussed years of stuff," said the Mercedes team boss.