The Dutch three-time Formula 1 world champion is currently under contract with Red Bull until 2028, but his future with the team has been cast into doubt due to tensions between his father Jos and team principal Christian Horner.
Mercedes will be losing their seven-time F1 world champion, Hamilton, to Ferrari at the end of the season. This leaves a vacant seat, which was recently filled by Carlos Sainz, the winner of the Australian Grand Prix.
During an interview in Melbourne with Fox Sports Australia, Mercedes team boss Wolff revealed that they have an open slot in their top teams, but it is contingent on whether or not Verstappen decides to leave Red Bull. Wolff acknowledged Verstappen’s exceptional performance, but also recognized that there are other talented drivers to consider.
Wolff admitted that he missed the opportunity to sign Verstappen as a teenager, as Red Bull had a seat available for him at Toro Rosso. At the time, Wolff was unable to offer him an immediate seat in Formula 1 and had placed his bets on Esteban Ocon instead.
Although Wolff has a good relationship with Jos Verstappen and had discussed future possibilities with him in Vienna, the driver had already received an offer from Red Bull. Wolff acknowledged that the timing of such a partnership is crucial, but it remains uncertain when it will happen.
In addition to Verstappen, Wolff mentioned other potential options for Mercedes, including double world champion Fernando Alonso, Carlos Sainz, and Mercedes-backed F2 rookie Kimi Antonelli. Each of these drivers brings their own unique qualities and strengths.
Verstappen has not completely ruled out the possibility of joining Mercedes in the long run, but he expressed his contentment with Red Bull, referring to them as his “second family.” He also stated that it would be a remarkable story to conclude his Formula 1 career with the team.
Mercedes, once a dominant force in the sport, experienced a winless season last year and suffered a double retirement in Melbourne, which was their first since 2018. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin)