Toto Wolff's stubborn decision on Max Verstappen jeopardises George Russell's as Mercedes boss accidentally leaks Kimi Antonelli's move

It is no longer an option, but Toto Wolff is hoping to lure Max Verstappen away from Red Bull. Critics have labelled this hope as “delulu” in the most Gen-Z way possible. But the chances are not zero. The Mercedes boss will try everything in his power to impress the three-time champion into coming to his garage and getting into the cockpit of a future Mercedes F1 car. But how far-fetched is this appeal?

From now on Max Verstappen has dedicated his whole being, his whole heart and soul to the Austrian racing team. The “Flying Dutchman” is keeping the Silver Arrows at bay and focusing on his time at Red Bull. Toto Wolff, however, seems to be staying true to his determination. The question is – who will Mercedes remove when Max joins – George Russell or the alleged Kimi Antonelli? Wolff may not have an answer to that question at the moment. But in the near future he will have to make a difficult decision.

Toto Wolff is firmly convinced that a connection with Max Verstappen is possible!

The praises that Toto Wolff has for Max Verstappen cannot be counted on one hand. The Limburger will also drive for Christian Horner's team next year. However, Wolff has been harboring hopes of a new driver for months. He is in no mood to give up his persuasive work. Mercedes boss sees Verstappen in his team in the next few years. “I believed all year that there was a possibility. Let me put it this way: The chance was not zero,” Toto Wolff explained. “There was unrest at Red Bull and that still is the case. Not only because of the performance on the track, but, as we all know, also off the track.” Wolff reminded everyone of the energy drink brand’s internal turmoil.

He added: “I knew the chance wasn't very big, but the door was never completely closed. I didn't want to give up. In the summer we decided together that we weren't going to wait any longer to see if something happened. We make our decisions, and Max does too.” It looks like Toto will abandon his campaign for next season, but 2026 could see a fresh start!

Mercedes keeps the doors open for the Dutchman. Whenever he wants to join in, he is welcomed with joy. The 52-year-old now believes that his and Max's paths will cross at some point. It could be 2026 or it could take three years, who knows?

At the same time, Wolff is aiming to get the Red Bull star by 2026. However, he currently has two drivers in his hands: George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. Toto will need to build his team around this duo until Max comes in (if ever). The new regulations will bring new challenges, but until then, Toto should not openly annoy others when he has too much on his plate. Wolff also stressed the importance of giving Russell 100% while inadvertently leaking information about Antonelli.

Toto Wolff’s “slip of the tongue” reveals the name of George Russell’s partner for 2025

“The two drivers in our car next year have our full support. I want it to work out with George and Kimi.” Even after that, Toto Wolff will say that he has not yet decided on Russell’s team-mate! Mercedes always talks about their policy of “no hidden agenda” but they hide terribly Kimi Antonellis debut news. The rumor mill has confirmed the information and even experts believe that the Italian F2 star will be announced in the first week of September.

Interestingly, Russell would have the upper hand while Antonelli takes time to settle into the Mercedes cockpit. But that will not be the case when Max Verstappen joins the team. We know how versatile and flexible the RedBull giant. But what if, in the wildest turn of events, Toto keeps Antonelli to partner with Verstappen? The odds are slim, but you never know – F1 is mysterious! “Perhaps next year will bring the time when 2026 will become an issue, but we are not there yet,” Toto Wolff made it clear.

Most things remain mysterious. What is almost confirmed is Kimi Antonelli's F1 debut with Mercedes. Meanwhile, George Russell's place is not in danger unless his boss decides to pull some strange stunt. But if we believe the experts, then we might find Max Verstappen in the Brackley team in 2026.

Until then, we will have to closely monitor further developments and activities. What are your thoughts? Share them below.