Verstappen’s Formula 1 future has been the subject of persistent rumours over the past 18 months, with the Dutchman first linked to Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes seat after the Briton announced he was off to Ferrari.

In the three weeks since the British Grand Prix, Max Verstappen’s future has been the talk of the F1 world and it appeared all but certain he was headed to Mercedes.

Mercedes is yet to name its 2026 F1 drivers. With interest from Red Bull's Max Verstappen, Luke Smith argues he should join George Russell

Speaking to Austrian broadcaster ORF, Mercedes boss Wolff has said continuing with Russell and Antonelli is the "absolute priority" for him, and has played down any "big surprises" over the summer break. "Discussions have been taking place over the last weeks and months, so they are all up to date," Wolff said.

Will Mercedes replace George Russell with Max Verstappen? Andrea Kimi Antonelli reveals what it would feel like to race alongside Verstappen.

What a difference a few days make as Ralf Schumacher has backtracked on his prediction that Max Verstappen "will be" Mercedes next season.