Toto Wolff praises Max Verstappen again after Monza: “He makes everyone else look stupid”. Toto Wolff once again praised Max Verstappen after his victory at Monza.

Toto Wolff keeps eyeing Verstappen: “He makes them all look stupid”

Toto Wolff once again praised Max Verstappen after the Dutchman’s victory at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, raising fresh speculation about Mercedes’ long-term interest. On the eve of the weekend, few would have predicted such an outcome. Yet Verstappen’s pole position and commanding win at Monza quickly reignited talk of the Mercedes team principal’s admiration for the four-time world champion.

The possibility of a future link between Verstappen and Mercedes is not new. Both sides have confirmed in recent months that there have been conversations. However, the reigning world champion ultimately decided to remain with Red Bull for next season, which likely puts an end to speculation about a switch in 2026.

Toto Wolff once again praises Verstappen

After the race at Monza, Toto Wolff’s post-race comments quickly drew attention and became a hot topic among paddock insiders and fans on social media. He admitted: “I can’t be happy with a fifth and a ninth place, honestly. Unfortunately, there is one driver who keeps making all the others look stupid.”

The message was clearly aimed at Max Verstappen, who managed to secure victory despite having a car that was not on the same level as the McLaren. Such praise, however, may not sit well with George Russell. The British driver, despite reassurances from Mercedes, has yet to sign his contract extension with the Silver Arrows. Wolff’s admiration for Verstappen could therefore add another layer of uncertainty to Mercedes’ driver lineup discussions.

With Max Verstappen continuing to deliver dominant performances even when Red Bull is not the outright fastest, and Wolff publicly acknowledging his brilliance, the speculation around a potential future partnership remains alive in the background—whether or not it ever becomes reality.