Reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen could leave Red Bull ahead of next year, with reports suggesting he could replace rival George Russell at Mercedes.

Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, has reignited talk of Max Verstappen potentially joining his team by admitting that he is having “conversations” with Red Bull’s four-time world champion with regard to a future drive.

Toto Wolff has confirmed that Mercedes is exploring the possibility of signing Max Verstappen in the future but insists it is not impacting ongoing contract talks with George Russell for 2026.