Lately there has been more than a few rumours circulating regarding Verstappen, Toto Wolff, and George Russell; but Toto Wolff has vehemently denied these claims.
Background Information
The rumours begun to fly when Red Bull begun to go downhill. This triggered many to post about a supposed exit clause for Verstappen.
Christian Horner‘s exit also sparked some discussion. After his leave was public, many began to speculate even more so.
The two factors combined enhanced the rumours of a possible leave before his contract expires.
Toto Wolff
In Verstappen’s rookie days, Toto Wolff expressed interest in signing him, and when asked more recently he again alluded to his interest in Max, leading fans to believe that he was still interested in Verstappen coming to Mercedes.
This would mean that if Max went to Mercedes, one of the drivers would have to leave. Where does George Russell link into this?
Finally, both Wolff and Verstappen were in the same place at the same time. Fans were monitoring both of their yacht locations and noticed – pushing the rumours further again,
George Russell
Many fans automatically assumed that George Russell would be the one who would leave Mercedes. Antonelli is the prodigy of Wolff and Merc, so it was never going to be him. Russell is the only option.
On top of this, both of their contracts are not renewed. This further fuelled the rumours, and made people feel more confident in a change.
Update on the Rumours
Toto Wolff has said that Mercedes’ main focus is Antonelli and Russell – therefore denying the rumours – and that he doesn’t think there will be any “big surprises” yet.
Max Verstappen’s exit clause window has also reportedly closed. This means that Verstappen will stay at Red Bull Racing, and George Russell will stay at Mercedes.
Overall, the rumours have been shut down. But what do you think? Should Verstappen have moved to Mercedes?
Let us know what you think!