Toto Wolff’s latest remarks about Max Verstappen have launched a brand new layer of complexity into George Russell’s Mercedes future. The British driver has already been pushed to think about becoming a member of Audi for 2028.
Whereas Mercedes will proceed to groom Kimi Antonelli, Russell’s must share the automotive with the younger Italian has raised questions on his future. Wolff instructed Sky Sport Germany that Antonelli have to be given time and mentioned Verstappen was a driver on the highest degree.
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Wolff mentioned, “We have to give Kimi time to develop. Max is driving on the peak of his talents, able to something. They respect one another and are available from totally different generations. Having each on the identical workforce would create a totally totally different start line.”
The Mercedes chief just isn’t involved about dealing with a possible famous person tandem, citing his expertise with Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.
He added, “It would not scare me, I’ve handled more durable conditions with Rosberg and Hamilton. I’d most likely deal with it higher right this moment.”
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Most significantly, the Mercedes workforce principal mentioned, “We’re not afraid to have each drivers within the workforce, eventually.”
George Russell May Discover Audi Alternative
These feedback observe Russell’s future being pushed in the direction of Audi. Former Haas workforce principal Guenther Steiner instructed Motorsport.com that Audi is likely to be a future risk for the Mercedes driver in 2028. Because the workforce goals to enhance its place in System 1, the rising works mission might show to be an fascinating prospect for Audi.
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George Russell of Nice Britain and Mercedes walks within the rain within the paddock through the F1 Grand Prix of Belgium at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps.(Picture by Kym Illman/Getty Photos)
Steiner urged a number of drivers may very well be occupied with Audi when a seat doubtlessly turns into out there.
Steiner mentioned, “Carlos [Sainz] for positive. I believe George can also be trying round now, understanding that he is now with Kimi.”
Verstappen-Antonelli Plan May Change The whole lot
Steiner thinks that the state of affairs of Russell with Antonelli might make him take into consideration different choices as an alternative of staying with Mercedes for the foreseeable future.
The F1 veteran mentioned, “He would not need to stick with Kimi for the remainder of his life, as a result of there he is aware of the place he’s for the remainder of his life. So, he’s looking for new alternatives.”
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Whereas it is not confirmed that Russell will go away, it is actually an fascinating risk. If Mercedes ultimately decides to go for Verstappen to drive with Antonelli, then Russell could also be one of many greatest names on the 2028 market.
This story was initially printed by Athlon Sports activities on Jul 31, 2026, the place it first appeared within the Racing part. Add Athlon Sports activities as a Most popular Supply by clicking right here.
