Mercedes considers moving Max Verstappen while Lewis Hamilton leaves.
Toto Wolff, the principal of the Mercedes team, has reacted to the rumors that Max Verstappen would join the Silver Arrows in the 2025 season.
This follows the recent declaration that Lewis Hamilton will make a high-profile move to Ferrari in 2025 following a successful tenure that produced six titles with Mercedes.
While a number of names, including Fernando Alonso, Carlos Sainz, and Alex Albon, have been floated as possible replacements, the intriguing idea of enticing Verstappen, the three-time World Champion, to join Mercedes has surfaced.
Talking about the possibility, Wolff said, We will always be committed to having the finest conceivable driver combination in our cars, in an interview with RTL.
We won’t avoid having numerous conversations about that, either. This has shown us just how swiftly things can shift. Having stated that, we will honor current agreements.
While acknowledging Verstappen’s current contract with Red Bull through 2028, Wolff emphasized how quickly alliances can change in sports due to their unpredictable nature. All drivers want to do is sit in the quickest cars.
Thus, it is our responsibility to demonstrate that we are able to construct the fastest car—both now and in the future—taking into account the new rules. Opportunities might arise from that. We have the upper hand, he declared.
Dr. Helmut Marko of Red Bull had already predicted that Mercedes would try to chase Verstappen, proving that the appeal of speed knows no bounds.
Formula 1 enthusiasts are excitedly awaiting the Bahrain International Circuit’s revving engines for the official pre-season testing, which takes place from February 23–25, 2024.
The teams will provide an enticing look into the intricacies of the forthcoming season on this 5.412-kilometer track, laying the groundwork for possible surprises and possibly bombshell driver moves.
