But speaking with Austrian outlet ORF ahead of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff made it clear that the team’s “priority” is their current driver lineup, George Russell and rookie Kimi Antonelli. “The direction is that we want to continue with George and Kimi. That’s our top priority,” said Wolff.

As for Verstappen’s widely reported exit clause, ORF claims it has now expired. The clause reportedly allowed him to leave Red Bull mid-contract in 2025, but only if he was outside the top three in the standings by mid-season. Currently sitting third, that window has closed, at least for this year.

Rumours have abounded that reigning champion Max Verstappen is in discussions with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff regarding a possible move to the team in 2026. But today, Wolff has scuppered any ideas about pushing George Russell or Kimi Antonelli out of the picture;