F1
Mercedes’ Toto Wolff Unfazed by Prospect of Never Signing Max Verstappen: Eyes Set on Rising Star Antonelli
Toto Wolff was asked if he worries about the possibility of never securing Max Verstappen for Mercedes.
Toto Wolff inquired whether he would feel let down if he is unable to attract Max Verstappen to the team.
Toto Wolff claims he wouldn't feel let down if Max Verstappen never drives for Mercedes.
The head of the Mercedes team has admitted that their hopes of attracting the Red Bull driver to take over for Lewis Hamilton, who will join Ferrari in 2025, have been dashed.
Nonetheless, the new F1 rules will come into effect a year later, establishing a fresh competitive landscape.
The possibility of starting a dominant period in 2026 suggests that Mercedes might once more aspire to attract Verstappen.
During the F1 Dutch Grand Prix, Wolff was questioned about his inability to persuade Verstappen to switch teams.
He mentioned to Sky Sports that he doesn't view it as a letdown.
"Max is an excellent driver."
“We must focus on our drivers. George Russell is performing exceptionally well.
"We will concentrate on whoever is in the second car and not worry about potential future events."
"I want to collaborate with George and the new driver to make it successful."
Wolff declined to reveal who will take Hamilton's place in 2025.
Nevertheless, all indications suggest that Andrea Kimi Antonelli, their remarkably talented young talent, is the focus.
"We've conducted numerous Formula 1 tests with him," Wolff stated.
"He has performed exceptionally well in the junior racing series. However, his team is facing some challenges in Formula 2."
"It is evident that if the campaign is successful, he could potentially secure a spot in Formula 1."
Wolff humorously remarked, "If it doesn't work out, I informed him that we'll be competing in the Renault Clio Cup next year!"
Antonelli, who is 18 years old, is expected to be chosen to replace Hamilton at Mercedes next year following an extended process to find a new driver.
Trusting Antonelli at such a young age is similar to how Red Bull trusted Verstappen during his teenage years.
Despite Antonelli's move from F2 to F1, some remain skeptical about his capability to perform at the higher level.
Eddie Jordan has stated that he believes it is an error.
“You are subjecting him to immense stress.”
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