Formula One: Toto Wolff Confirms the "Absolute Priority" of re-signing Russell and Antonelli

Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, confirms that George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli's re-signing is a priority.

(Image Credit to Mercedes-AMG Passion Club on X)

After doubt, continuous rumours and escalation, including the tracking of planes to determine where reigning world champion Max Verstappen was on the recent mini summer break, Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One team principal Toto Wolff has set out the priority for his team ahead of the final double header.

While Verstappen signed a multi-year contract in 2022, ensuring him a seat at Red Bull Racing until 2028, rumours have continuously spiralled around the paddock about a potential move to Mercedes in time for the next stage of regulation changes. 

Despite winning 4 championships with the team, Red Bull are not at the peak that brought them success in recent years, with major moves being in place. These include head figures Adrian Newey and Rob Marshall moving teams to Aston Martin Aramco and McLaren respectively. Thus, the rumours about Verstappen’s future moves are being set alight. 

Connecting this to Mercedes, both Russell’s and Antonelli’s contracts end at the closure of the current 2025 season, causing reports of the Mercedes side being given the green light to go after the Dutchman to arise. 

Ahead of this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, the Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, said that continuing the partnership of Russell and Antonelli is an "absolute priority" for the team chasing their first world title in Formula One since 2021.

Wolff confirmed to an Austrian broadcaster that "discussions have been taking place over the last weeks and months."

Wolff further confirmed that while the "direction of travel" is what they want to continue and is a priority, "you can't look past someone like Max and the plans he has for the future."

Article Written by Kieran McDonnell