Toto Wolff has been a transformative force for Mercedes since taking over as team principal in 2013. Under his leadership, the team enjoyed unparalleled dominance in Formula 1, clinching eight consecutive Constructors' Championships from 2014 to 2021 and seven straight Drivers' Championships between 2014 and 2020. However, their reign faced a formidable challenge from Max Verstappen and Red Bull, whose rise to power has reshaped the F1 landscape.
Since 2021, Verstappen has secured four consecutive Drivers' Championships, while Red Bull claimed back-to-back Constructors' titles in 2022 and 2023. Amid this heated rivalry, Wolff recently made a surprising claim about Verstappen.
A candid admission about Max Verstappen
Toto Wolff’s comments regarding Max Verstappen have stirred curiosity in the F1 community. Speaking about the Dutchman’s potential move to Mercedes, Wolff admitted that the possibility was never seriously considered within the team, despite earlier speculations. While he once openly praised Verstappen’s immense talent and implied interest in signing him, Wolff has now clarified the team's stance.
"There was never a plan. We always talked and kept the line of communication open," Wolff revealed during an interview with Auto Motor und Sport. He elaborated that while the idea of Verstappen in a Mercedes was intriguing, both parties had their reasons to stay the course. "At one point, he said he wanted to stay where he was for the time being because that felt good to him."
Toto Wolff also highlighted Mercedes’ decision to focus on its own future stars. With the departure of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari at the end of 2024, the team opted to promote young talent Kimi Antonelli to partner George Russell.
"That’s when I said we would go for Kimi Antonelli because that felt good to us too. And now we’ll see where we end up," Wolff added.
While Verstappen remains Red Bull’s golden boy, speculation about his future continues to mount. Aston Martin, with its ambitious plans and resources, is reportedly eyeing the Dutchman. For now, however, Verstappen’s loyalty to Red Bull appears unwavering, ensuring that his rivalry with Wolff-led Mercedes will remain a defining narrative in Formula 1.