Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has named George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli as the team's priority for the 2026 Formula One season. The revelation comes after Max Verstappen was strongly linked to Mercedes.

Mercedes F1 star George Russell has responded to ‘conspiracy’ claims surrounding Toto Wolff's talks with F1 champion Max Verstappen. Red Bull have been under pressure to retain Verstappen following confirmation of talks with Mercedes, with the team parting ways with Christian Horner to ensure the success of the team moving forward.

With a move to Mercedes seemingly off the cards, Verstappen is now well-placed to remain at Red Bull until the end of his contract in 2028. It has been speculated that the four-time world champion could then retire, provided he is content with his achievements in F1, instead pursuing a new career in endurance racing.