Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff says that he still sees an opportunity to attract Max Verstappen to his team.
During the start of the season, the internal power struggle within the Red Bull team was the topic of conversation in the paddock. The rumour mill was running at full speed and it was whispered that Max Verstappen could move to Mercedes to replace Lewis Hamilton, who will move to Ferrari in 2025.
Red Bull currently dominates the sport and on a sporting level there is no reason for Verstappen to look elsewhere, but Toto Wolff sometimes also plays other factors.
“There are so many factors that come into play when a driver signs,” Wolff told the media in China. “Obviously if you look at it from the most rational point of view you can say ‘that’s the fastest car in the hands of the fastest driver’.”
“But I don’t think that’s the only reason why you stay where you are. Let’s say for simple minds, that could be the only reason you stay in a car and that’s it.”
“But there may be more options for some people who also consider other factors. I think Max has that.”
Wolff also doesn’t think he has to convince Verstappen, he thinks the Dutchman is old and wise enough to decide for himself.
“Are we able to convince him in that regard? I don’t think it’s a matter of convincing,” he added. “I think Max knows motorsport better than anyone, he will make decisions that he thinks are good for him.”
“I think a few factors come into play, but he’s the one who’s going to cause a few more dominoes to fall after that. Everyone is waiting to see what he is going to do.”
“If I were Max, I would stay at Red Bull in 2025 – but I’m not Max. It is the fastest car, but there are other factors.”
When asked whether he is able to offer Verstappen a contract for 2025, Wolff responds as follows: “If I say this, I might screw up my entire strategy.”