The Formula 1 paddock is heating up, and Mercedes is right at the center of it. Reports have now confirmed that the Silver Arrows have officially held talks with Max Verstappen about joining them for the 2026 season. That’s not speculation — it’s straight from Toto Wolff himself. The big question now isn’t if Mercedes wants Max. It’s who they’re ready to drop to make room for him
Toto Wolff has made it clear: Mercedes is waiting on Verstappen’s decision before locking down their second seat. George Russell, the man expected to lead the team post-Hamilton, suddenly finds himself in limbo. His contract runs out in 2025, but Wolff has paused all extension talks. The reason? Verstappen might activate his Red Bull exit clause — and Mercedes doesn’t want to miss out.
So, who exactly is getting the boot? All signs point to Russell being on the chopping block. Kimi Antonelli, the teenage prodigy already confirmed as Hamilton’s 2025 replacement, is considered the long-term investment. Mercedes may not want to derail his development. That leaves Russell, the experienced yet expendable driver, as the likely casualty if Verstappen makes the jump.
This situation is more than just driver drama — it’s a full-blown power shift. Red Bull’s internal politics have reportedly pushed Max’s camp to explore options, and Mercedes, with a strong 2026 power unit program, is ready to pounce. If Verstappen does trigger his exit clause — which could happen as early as this summer — Mercedes will have to move fast.
The summer break is the real deadline here. Verstappen’s exit clause reportedly becomes active if he drops below fourth in the standings. With Red Bull’s form dipping, the door is cracked open. Behind the scenes, Mercedes is preparing to walk right through — and when they do, Russell could be left standing outside.
The summer break is the real deadline here. Verstappen’s exit clause reportedly becomes active if he drops below fourth in the standings. With Red Bull’s form dipping, the door is cracked open. Behind the scenes, Mercedes is preparing to walk right through — and when they do, Russell could be left standing outside.
In the end, this isn’t just about Verstappen or Russell. It’s about Mercedes making a championship-winning gamble. And right now, it looks like they’ve already decided who they’re betting on — and who they’re letting go.
