Wolff dismisses Verstappen speculation following sightings in Sardinia.

      "I don’t believe there will be any significant surprises."

      Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has downplayed the recent speculation linking Max Verstappen to the Brackley-based team. In an interview with Austrian broadcaster ORF prior to this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, Wolff dismissed the online buzz triggered by vacation photographs showing both him and Verstappen in Sardinia together. "What's new is that people are creating photo collages with airplanes. We've never seen that before," Wolff said with a smile. "Just because you happen to vacation near one another doesn’t necessarily imply you’ll collaborate in Formula 1. We've always had a good relationship; it simply happens that we vacation in similar locations."

      He acknowledged that he does not expect any significant alterations to the Mercedes lineup for 2026, despite ongoing rumors suggesting that Verstappen could leave Red Bull following Christian Horner's departure. "But I don't foresee any major surprises," he remarked.

      While he expressed interest in Verstappen, Wolff reaffirmed that his primary focus remains on the current driver lineup. "Our intention is to continue with George and Kimi. That’s our highest priority," stated the Mercedes principal. "Everyone is informed."

      According to the ORF report, Mercedes is expected to soon announce its 2026 lineup, with a decision anticipated in Spa. "It's not solely about the team making a decision; the drivers must also understand their positions. We have always aimed to stick to this principle, and we will do so again this time."

      Regarding Verstappen, his much-talked-about exit clause, which would have permitted him to leave Red Bull mid-contract in 2025, is no longer applicable. ORF indicates that this clause was dependent on Verstappen being outside the top three in the standings at mid-season. Currently occupying third place, the option is now closed until the following year.