'Mercedes Doesn’t Need Verstappen:' Ex-F1 Driver’s Blunt Message to Toto Wolff Amid Russell Contract Tension

Rumors continue about Max Verstappen’s future with Red Bull Racing, especially regarding a possible move to Mercedes. Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher shared a bold view. He believes Mercedes doesn’t need Verstappen, especially with the growing tension around George Russell’s contract situation.

The Rumor That Won’t Go Away

Since Lewis Hamilton announced his departure to Ferrari, Mercedes has been under severe scrutiny about who will occupy the second seat next to Russell in 2026. Verstappen has been at the helm of rumors as a result of the instability in the background of Red Bull. Cases of in-fighting and pressure at the top have created an opening, at least in theory, to an explosive change of team.

However, Ralf Schumacher does not think Verstappen switching to Mercedes is only exaggerated but also finally necessary. Verstappen to Mercedes is still being discussed by everyone, but Schumacher cannot understand why Mercedes needs him. “They already possess George Russell, who is quick, bright, and can head a team. He should be the one the building is made around, and not chasing Verstappen.”

George Russell: The Real Focus?

Russell, the newcomer to Mercedes in 2022, has demonstrated good speed and strength despite two challenging seasons in equipment that were behind Red Bull and McLaren. With Hamilton gone, Russell is in a tricky situation now, not only because he is supposed to be the head of the team but also because he is not receiving an extension of his long-term contract.

Schumacher feels that the procrastination conveys the wrong idea from team boss Toto Wolff. “As George, I would be inquiring why the group is going out when I stand before them. He requires a clear head when it comes to his part,” Schumacher said.

According to insiders, Russell is seeking a multi-year contract, which will ensure that he stays with Formula 1 after 2026 when new technical rules come into effect. Mercedes, though, seems to have open options- sparking off the interest in Verstappen, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, and even non-Mercedes candidates.

Toto Wolff Responds Calmly

Wolff has responded to Verstappen’s speculation with a warning that he has no denial of interest and no confirmation of discussion. “When it comes to Formula 1, the best drivers will always be considered,” Wolff said, “We need fairness and to take care of our existing drivers. George is included in the long-term vision.”

Wolff has made it clear that Mercedes would not hurry to make any decision, but Russell had nothing to worry about. Nonetheless, Russell is experiencing the heat, not only on the track, but off it too, due to his feelings of frustration on the radio as well as during emotional post-race interviews.

Should Mercedes Bet On Stability, Not Star Power?

Many analysts back Schumacher. They believe that pursuing Verstappen might not be wise. For one, his high salary limits Mercedes’ options for developing cars for 2026. Additionally, adding Verstappen could create team dynamics issues, as he might clash with Russell.

Instead, Mercedes could focus on its future with Kimi Antonelli, a promising young Italian talent in their junior program. Some believe that by 2026, a Russell and Antonelli pairing could emerge. This strategy aligns with long-term investment and mirrors the success of the Red Bull driver academy.

What Happens Next?

Russell should also be negotiating with the management of Mercedes within the forthcoming weeks. Verstappen, in the meantime, insists that he is loyal to Red Bull, but has not gone as far as to rule out a future move to Mercedes.

The team now must make a dire choice, either to invest further in Russell as the future or to bet on the star potential of Verstappen. Mario Andretti once asserted that F1 is a game of timing and not talent. To Wolff, this move may shape the way of Mercedes in the new era of Formula 1.