Max Verstappen is high up on Toto Wolff’s list to replace Lewis Hamilton.
Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft has advised Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff on the strategy to lure Max Verstappen away from Red Bull Racing. With Red Bull facing challenges like the departure of design chief Adrian Newey, Wolff sees an opportunity to sway Verstappen.
Despite Verstappen being under contract with Red Bull until 2028, there’s a hidden clause allowing him to depart if senior advisor Helmut Marko leaves, keeping his options open.
Verstappen has expressed his commitment to Red Bull, where he currently enjoys a competitive car. However, Croft suggests that if Mercedes develops a superior engine under the new FIA regulations by 2026, Verstappen might be enticed to switch teams.
Croft doubts Verstappen’s immediate move to Mercedes unless he’s assured of the performance of their engine in 2026, akin to their dominance in 2014. Without such certainty, there’s little reason for Verstappen to leave Red Bull, which is currently a winning team.
With the upcoming regulations favoring Mercedes, Croft believes they could make a strong case for Verstappen. Wolff’s eagerness to secure Verstappen indicates Mercedes’ willingness to pursue Red Bull’s star driver.
