Mercedes’ Potential Signing of Max Verstappen Could Pose Selection Dilemma for Toto Wolff in 2026

It has been suggested that Toto Wolff would face significant challenges if Max Verstappen joined Mercedes for the 2026 F1 season.

Mercedes chief Toto Wolff would face a "dilemma" in choosing a teammate for Max Verstappen if he managed to attract the F1 world champion away from Red Bull.

BBC Sport F1 correspondent Andrew Benson believes that although it's "highly improbable" for Verstappen to move from Red Bull to Mercedes by 2025, there's a "real chance" it could happen in 2026.

However, if Mercedes signs this statement, Wolff will face a decision between George Russell and their highly-regarded Formula 2 protégé, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, for the second seat next to the Dutch driver.

When questioned during a Q&A about whether Russell might feel neglected due to Wolff’s open pursuit of Verstappen, Benson responded: "Definitely not. Mercedes has consistently emphasized that they view Russell as a key part of their future strategy – and his current performance fully supports their confidence. He ranks among the top drivers in Formula 1, and his achievements on the track validate this."

In their three seasons as teammates, the time differences between him and Lewis Hamilton during qualifying sessions have been incredibly tight. On average, only a few hundredths of a second divided them in both 2022 and 2023, with Russell leading in one year and Hamilton in the other.

"The situation remains unchanged this year, despite Russell leading with a significant 7-1 advantage in head-to-head matchups."

Wolff has openly expressed his desire to bring Verstappen to Mercedes. While it's highly improbable for 2025, it remains a real possibility for 2026.

Should Mercedes manage to sign Verstappen for the 2026 season, it would set up a direct competition between Russell and Antonelli in 2025, provided Antonelli gets promoted, which remains uncertain.

"Despite Antonelli's talent, it's difficult to wager against Russell, considering his experience in F1 since 2020. This could present a challenging decision for Wolff in 2026. However, I believe Wolff would describe this as a hypothetical scenario and a good problem to face."

According to BBC Sport, Verstappen, whose contract with Red Bull is valid until 2028, has a clause that allows him to exit the agreement at his discretion.

Benson mentioned that this situation is connected to the role of Helmut Marko, a Red Bull motorsport adviser and a supporter of the Verstappen family.

"If Marko departs from Red Bull, Verstappen will also be free to leave under the terms of his contract. Additionally, the Austrian has reportedly promised to support whatever decision Verstappen makes regarding his future."

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