Formula 1 is red-hot. As George Russell prepares to sign one of the most lucrative contracts of his career, Toto Wolff holds nothing back and makes a statement that could shake Red Bull to its core: Is Verstappen in Mercedes’ sights?

In the midst of a season marked by tension, controversy, and paddock strategies, Mercedes is once again at the center of attention. And it’s not because of its on-track results, but because of the moves its team principal, Toto Wolff, is reportedly planning for the team’s immediate future.

In a recent interview, Toto Wolff hinted that Max Verstappen’s future might not be as tied to Red Bull as many think . The three-time world champion, considered the most dominant driver of the modern era, has repeatedly expressed his loyalty to Red Bull, but recent internal conflicts, coupled with the Christian Horner scandal, could be weakening that relationship.

“I would never say anything is impossible in Formula 1. Circumstances change, and drivers seek the best for their careers,” Wolff said with an enigmatic smile.

This statement set off alarm bells in Milton Keynes. The possibility that Mercedes—after losing Lewis Hamilton in 2025—is laying the groundwork for  a blockbuster signing in Verstappen has sent shockwaves through the halls of Red Bull Racing.

But while Verstappen rumors are multiplying, George Russell is on the verge of signing a new contract with Mercedes that will position him as one of the highest-paid drivers on the grid. According to sources close to the team, the deal could be worth around £22.8 million annually , a significant increase from his current contract.

This move secures a key piece for Mercedes’ future. Russell has proven to be consistent, competitive, and, above all, loyal to the German team. Wolff trusts him as the new face of the team following Hamilton’s departure.

“George is an exceptional talent. We believe in his potential to lead Mercedes into a new era,” a team spokesperson said.

The atmosphere at Red Bull isn’t the best. Despite maintaining their dominance on the track, tensions between the team’s key figures have escalated since the accusations against Christian Horner, which shook internal stability. Although Horner was acquitted, the media storm and lack of unity have generated uncertainty.

Furthermore, Jos Verstappen’s close relationship with Toto Wolff has fueled the rumors. They have been seen chatting on several occasions during race weekends, leading many to speculate about a possible Mercedes courtship of Max.

While Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until 2028, Formula 1 has proven time and time again that contracts can be broken with the right conditions . With the 2026 regulation change looming and new engines on the way, some believe Verstappen could look for a new challenge, especially if Red Bull fails to maintain its dominance.

And Mercedes seems to be perfectly positioning itself to offer him that new path. A lineup with Russell and Verstappen would be a masterstroke for Toto Wolff and would return Mercedes to the forefront.

The news of Mercedes’ interest in Verstappen has exploded on social media. Twitter, Instagram, and especially Facebook have been filled with comments, theories, and memes about a possible change of jersey for the Dutch driver.

Fans are divided between those who see his departure from Red Bull as impossible and those who believe a partnership with Mercedes is a matter of time . Wolff’s comment was enough to rekindle a conversation that will only grow in the coming weeks.

In short , Mercedes is not only securing its future with Russell, but could be planning one of the most shocking signings in recent Formula 1 history. And meanwhile, at Red Bull… the alarm bells keep ringing.