A new glimmer of hope is emerging for Andrea Kimi Antonelli, as Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team prepares to define its driver line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season. On the eve of the Belgian Grand Prix at the iconic Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has confirmed that a decision regarding the future pair of drivers is imminent. The Austrian manager underlined that both the team and the drivers must align their visions: “It is not only the team that must make a decision — the drivers also need to know what awaits them.”
Mercedes has always followed a clear and respectful approach when it comes to planning long-term. That tradition will continue this year, with Wolff publicly outlining the team’s strategic direction: the priority remains to confirm George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli for the next technical era of Formula 1, which begins with the 2026 regulations overhaul.
“The intention is to move forward with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. They are our first choice,” said Toto Wolff. Negotiations are already underway, and all parties involved are reportedly kept in the loop. The young Antonelli, who will make his debut in Formula 1 with Mercedes in the 2025 season, has already made a strong impression during his initial appearances. Mercedes is placing its confidence in the growth and development of the Italian driver alongside the more experienced George Russell.
Verstappen to Mercedes? Unlikely before 2027 due to contract clause
Wolff also took time to address the persistent speculation linking three-time World Champion Max Verstappen to Mercedes in the near future. He acknowledged Verstappen’s calibre but firmly dismissed any possibility of a move before 2027 due to contractual constraints: “We can’t ignore a driver of Max’s level. However, any potential switch would not be possible before 2027 due to existing contractual obligations.”
A key element here is the widely discussed exit clause in Max Verstappen’s contract with Oracle Red Bull Racing. For the Dutchman to activate this clause for 2025, he would need to be lower than third in the drivers’ standings by a certain cutoff — a condition not currently met, as Verstappen holds third place in the championship, thus rendering the clause non-applicable.
In recent days, digitally altered photos suggesting a secret holiday meeting between Toto Wolff and Max Verstappen began circulating online, fueling rumours of confidential discussions. Toto Wolff responded to these viral images with sarcasm: “The latest trend is collages with airplanes. Being on vacation in the same area doesn’t mean anything.”
Despite acknowledging a cordial relationship with Verstappen, Wolff shut down further speculation, stressing that there is no pending agreement between the two parties. The decision regarding Mercedes’ 2026 driver line-up is expected in the very near future, and all signs point towards the continuation of the George Russell–Andrea Kimi Antonelli partnership — a duo that represents the team’s long-term vision heading into the next chapter of Formula 1.
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