Mercedes boss Toto Wolff reveals ongoing dialogue with Max Verstappen about potential future collaboration.
Wolff has given up on signing the Red Bull ace for the upcoming season, with Mercedes likely to announce soon that Italian youngster Andrea Kimi Antonelli will partner George Russell next year.
However, in an exclusive chat with BBC Sport, Wolff disclosed that he had discussions this year with Verstappen and his team about a possible move for next season.
He admits it was a “long shot” but says he made the approach because “there wasn’t a zero chance” following the turmoil at Red Bull – after a female employee accused team principal Christian Horner of sexual harassment and controlling behaviour.
“Red Bull had the top car early in the season,” Wolff says. “That’s shifted a bit. Now it’s Max Verstappen who’s dominant.
“And the relationships were rocky. I’m not certain they’re back on solid ground, but it is what it is. There was a moment, or an opportunity, to at least chat about what could be in the future, and that’s what we did.”
These talks happened despite Verstappen being under contract at Red Bull until the end of 2028.
