Wolff assures drivers during times of contract uncertainty.

      "It needs to happen prior to the tests."

      23 September 2025 - 08:28

      Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has sought to ease concerns regarding his 2026 driver lineup, with both George Russell and Kimi Antonelli yet to finalize contracts.

      “It’s all coming,” Wolff told Sky Deutschland after the race in Baku, where Russell finished second behind Max Verstappen despite feeling unwell throughout the weekend.

      “It has to be before the tests, otherwise we’ll need someone else for the car,” he joked about the deadline when asked.

      The Austrian praised Russell for achieving second place while visibly unwell at Baku but also defended 19-year-old Antonelli, who finished fourth.

      “Kimi did well. He’s not pleased about missing the podium, but it was crucial points for the team.”

      For the first time, Wolff openly described Antonelli’s performance at Monza as “disappointing,” but he appreciated his young protégé’s reaction.

      “I aimed to be honest. That’s why this comeback here is satisfying,” Wolff stated. “It’s part of being just 19 years old. You have to take him aside and clarify your expectations.”

      Additionally, Wolff confirmed that Mercedes’ 2025 car will not receive any additional upgrades. “We’re focusing on developing next year’s car,” he mentioned.

      “I wouldn’t say we’re in a bad situation. A racing team always has the capacity to uncover new ways to boost performance from the car, even without relying on updates.”

      Regarding the overall season, he acknowledged its unusual nature. “Crazy, isn't it? If George had started a little further up, we would have been in contention for the win,” Wolff remarked on Sunday.

      “There was no performance from McLaren and Ferrari. It’s odd how things fluctuate throughout the year.”

      Concerning Max Verstappen's renewed championship chances after consecutive pole positions and victories following an earlier downturn, Wolff said: “It’s a long shot, but yes, why not?”

      Meanwhile, it’s believed that Russell’s contract discussions are delayed, not just due to financial terms, but also because of his off-track commitments. The British driver wishes to reduce sponsor and media days, especially if he only signs a one-year extension.

      Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc shared with RTBF why such conditions can be crucial. “It’s a contractual discussion, but negotiation is common sense,” he noted.

      “We don’t avoid it because we want to, but because it can impact performance; we’re often so busy that we’re tired when we return to the car.

      “The most critical factor is that the driver is in the best possible condition when they go on the track,” emphasized the Ferrari driver.