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Toto Wolff’s Verstappen Pursuit Ends—For Now—As Mercedes Chooses Antonelli

Redação by Redação
February 17, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
0
Toto Wolff Steps Back as Verstappen-Russell Feud Simmers: “They’ll Sort It Out”

Toto Wolff during the FIA Formula One World Championship 2023 in Spielberg, Austria on June 30, 2023 // Lucas Pripfl / Red Bull Ring // SI202306300923 // Usage for editorial use only //

For years, Mercedes and Red Bull have been at war, a rivalry fueled by the infamous 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, relentless on-track battles, and bitter off-track feuds. But in a stunning turn, Toto Wolff and Helmut Marko—once sworn enemies—have found common ground.

And at the heart of their new détente? Max Verstappen.


Mercedes Wanted Verstappen—But He Stayed Loyal to Red Bull

When Lewis Hamilton’s shocking move to Ferrari rocked Formula 1’s driver market, Toto Wolff went hunting for the biggest prize of them all—three-time world champion Max Verstappen.

With Red Bull mired in internal drama, Verstappen’s future suddenly seemed uncertain. Christian Horner was nervous, and rightly so—Mercedes was circling.

But despite whispers, flirtations, and backroom discussions, Verstappen ultimately reaffirmed his loyalty to Red Bull, staying put in Milton Keynes for now.

So, what happened?

Wolff was interested, Verstappen was intrigued—but the timing wasn’t right.

“In terms of sport, psychology, and all the peripheral areas, 2021 was the toughest season we’ve ever experienced,” said Marko. “But we’ve moved on. The rivalry is still there, but we’ve learned to live with defeats and deal with them.”

And so, Mercedes pivoted. Instead of Verstappen, Wolff is putting his chips on an 18-year-old prodigy—Kimi Antonelli—who will now partner George Russell in 2025.


Austrian Allies: Wolff and Marko’s Surprising Friendship

For years, Wolff and Marko traded barbs in the media, with Red Bull and Mercedes constantly clashing over regulations, car designs, and that infamous title decider.

But in a stunning twist, the two Austrians are now on much better terms.

What changed?

The death of Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz.

“His passing certainly brought us together,” Wolff admitted. “Even though there was rivalry, he was such an incredible entrepreneur. Austrians stick together, and now we’ve realized we think similarly about the behavior of some people.”

Translation? Wolff and Marko now see eye-to-eye on who the real “problem figures” in F1 are.

And that newfound diplomatic channel could be critical in keeping Mercedes in the Verstappen conversation should Red Bull’s dominance slip.


Aston Martin’s Billion-Dollar Bombshell: Verstappen’s Future Still in Play?

While Verstappen ultimately rejected Mercedes for 2025, his long-term future is still a hot topic—especially after reports surfaced that Aston Martin is preparing an eye-watering £1 billion offer to lure him away from Red Bull.

If true, it signals one thing:

Despite public denials, Verstappen is still open to leaving Red Bull if their performance dips.

And if Mercedes’ rebuilding phase works, Wolff could be back at the negotiating table in 2026 or beyond.

After all, Wolff and Marko are no longer rivals—they’re allies. And in Formula 1, relationships shape the future.


Final Verdict: Mercedes Loses the Verstappen Battle, But the War Isn’t Over

For now, Max Verstappen remains a Red Bull driver.

Mercedes has gone all-in on teenage sensation Kimi Antonelli, placing their future in the hands of youth instead of poaching an established superstar.

But make no mistake—this saga isn’t over.

With Helmut Marko and Toto Wolff now on speaking terms, and Aston Martin’s billion-pound gamble looming, Verstappen’s long-term commitment to Red Bull isn’t bulletproof.

If cracks appear, Mercedes will be ready.

And next time, they might just seal the deal.

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