Toto Wolff and Christian Horner continued their traditional media exchanges last weekend in Austria. Once again, Max Verstappen was the main topic of conversation. Toto Wolff believes the Dutchman is still a realistic target for 2025, a belief the Austrian has no issue in reiterating.
With George Russell taking victory two days ago, the recent progress at Mercedes has been topped off with some silverware. If James Allison and his technical team can continue unlocking performance on the W15, the rivalry between the Silver Arrows and Red Bull will intensify.
Even before the latest Mercedes resurgence, Toto Wolff has repeatedly mentioned his interest in Verstappen.
Speaking to motorsport-total, the 52-year-old responded with scepticism to Verstappen’s statements in Austria – where he told the media he will stay at Red Bull:
“He couldn’t say anything else, could he? They had to really press him for the answer.”
2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix, Thursday – LAT Images
TOTO WOLFF IS NOT GIVING UP ON SIGNING VERSTAPPEN
Clearly, Wolff believes Verstappen’s comments are only a formality rather than a concrete affirmation of his commitment to Red Bull.
When asked if he expects the Dutchman to race for Red Bull next year, Wolff simply said:
“I would put my hand in the fire that Max will drive in Formula 1 next year.”
At this stage, these quite provocative statements are becoming a regular part of the Mercedes team principal’s routine. However, his consistent pursuit of the reigning Champion is more than just a tactic to destabilise Red Bull.
Wolff genuinely believes that Verstappen is an achievable signing. This conviction is partly motivated by the 2026 regulations when the consensus is that Mercedes engines will be of the highest quality.
This expectation is credible. Most drivers expect the factory in Brixworth to produce another top power unit, which it has consistently done in the 21st century.
Moreover, the instability within Red Bull is seen as another weakness that Mercedes could exploit. As recently as last weekend, Jos Verstappen complained about Christian Horner – accusing the Red Bull team principal of having an issue with him.
Of course, this does not guarantee they will be able to lure Verstappen away from Milton Keynes. As Toto Wolff himself has emphasised, the Silver Arrows must produce a race-winning car to attract the Dutchman.
Regardless of whether the German constructor can fight for regular wins in the second half of 2024, their intentions are clear.
Whilst evaluating their young talent Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes are also gunning for Red Bull’s star driver.
