Wolff states Mercedes focuses on Russell and Antonelli after Verstappen extension
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 11:36 AM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026
Ahead of the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, Max Verstappen has signed a multi-year contract extension with Red Bull Racing, securing his position with the team until 2030. This announcement has ended speculation about a potential move to Mercedes. Team Principal Toto Wolff confirmed that Mercedes is committed to drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, describing them as part of a 'perfect lineup'. Wolff acknowledged the end of the chaotic driver market and stated that the team can now focus completely on their racing efforts.
- •Verstappen extends contract with Red Bull until 2030.
- •Mercedes focuses on George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.
- •Wolff dismisses disappointment over missing out on Verstappen.
- •Wolff views Verstappen's extension as logical in driver market context.
- •Mercedes plans to fully dedicate resources to current lineup.
- 11:36 AMYahoo Sports — Wolff Finally Ends the Verstappen Chase, Declares Mercedes Has the “Perfect Lineup”
"For months, the Formula 1 paddock has been dominated by a single, burning question: Could Toto Wolff lure Max Verstappen away from Red Bull? Ahead of the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, that door was firmly slammed shut. Verstappen officially ended…
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
Motorsport•Oct 17, 2026, 10:13 PMIs Phoenix a must-win for Blaney's Cup Series title hopes?
Motorsport•Oct 16, 2026, 7:43 PMVerstappen Racing struggles to 15th as Porsche takes emotional Portimao pole
Motorsport•Oct 16, 2026, 2:38 PMHow Max Verstappen escaped harsher penalty after FP1 collision in Portimao
Motorsport•Oct 16, 2026, 10:05 AMMax Verstappen sends rival spinning as commentators call it a "badge of honour"- Motorsport•Oct 16, 2026, 9:30 AMVerstappen involved in a spin in the opening laps of GT practice in Portimão
- Motorsport•Oct 16, 2026, 7:30 AMVerstappen gives his verdict after first laps in Portugal: ‘It took time to get used to it’
