Just Now: Max Vesterppen agrees to move to Mercedes during…

Max Verstappen is rumoured to be on Mercedes’ list to replace the departing Lewis Hamilton

 

 

Toto Wolff at 2023 United States Grand Prix | Mercedes / Sebastian Kawka

Toto Wolff has insisted Mercedes will not rush Max Verstappen into deciding whether to to join the team next year, as he suggested Red Bull’s internal turmoil could force him to leave them behind.

 

The Mercedes supremo has lined up a sensational move for Verstappen to fill the void soon to be left by Lewis Hamilton, as the seven-time champion prepares to bid farewell at the end of 2024 before linking up with Ferrari.

 

Verstappen’s dad Jos Verstappen was spotted holding talks with Wolff at the Bahrain Grand Prix earlier this year, and Wolff has refused to deny his interest in recruiting the 26-year-old, who has opened the door to a potential switch.

 

When asked by Sky Sports F1 if he is planning to approach Verstappen about driving for the team next year, Wolff replied, joking: “[As] if I would know! Well, at the end [of the day], Max is in quickest car and this is what the drivers always have to look at.

 

 

Max Verstappen of Red Bull ahead of 2024 Australian Grand Prix | Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool

Such a move would have been difficult to imagine given Red Bull’s domination of the sport, having won 21 of 22 races last season. Once again, it looks as if they are poised to lead from the front this season after back-to-back 1-2 finishes in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

 

But while the Dutchman has said publicly he is happy with Red Bull, it is believed the three-time world champion is considering his options following the ongoing saga between team principal Christian Horner, Helmut Marko and his father.