Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has admitted to making a ‘mistake’ by openly courting Max Verstappen. In early 2025, the Austrian launched a charm offensive towards the Dutch world champion, hoping to secure him for Mercedes. However, Verstappen pledged loyalty to his team, forcing the Silberpfeile to reconfirm their current line-up.
It’s no secret that Wolff has had a soft spot for Verstappen for some time. Over the past two seasons, he made futile attempts to woo the Dutchman. When Red Bull had a rocky start to the season this year, Wolff seized another opportunity to seek rapprochement. Now that George Russell and Kimi Antonelli have both signed a new contract for the upcoming Formula 1 season, the team boss is reflecting on his courtship attempts.
“The truth is that you have to learn from your mistakes,” Wolff responded to Sky Sports in Austin. “I don’t think there was deliberate flirting – it was just a coincidence. But it was clear that that conversation had to take place. That we ended up in the same place in the summer, of course, did not look good; it further destabilized things. But that’s behind us now – everything is clear, and we’re looking ahead.”
Potential Deal with Verstappen Not Ruled Out
During the summer break, Max Verstappen was spotted on a yacht with Wolff, sparking rumors of a possible transfer to Mercedes. George Russell later admitted that these speculations had an impact on his own contract negotiations. However, Wolff does not rule out that Mercedes may attempt to recruit Verstappen in the future, although he downplays the interest for now.
“I think you need stability, and constantly short-term contracts are not good for anyone,” he explained. “Without going into details – there are always clauses, but for now it is clear for both drivers and team that this is the course we are sailing. We are satisfied with our current line-up; the balance is good. The past few months have provided enough entertainment, but we are not here to fuel rumors. Kimi and George are our future – a very strong duo.”
