Max Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, has revealed that the Dutch superstar isn’t the only name on Mercedes’ radar as the team continues to weigh its long-term future.
According to Vermeulen, Toto Wolff has also been in touch with Ferrari ace Charles Leclerc, suggesting the Silver Arrows are keeping several options alive.
Mercedes has been in hot pursuit of Verstappen for over a year, initially eyeing him as Lewis Hamilton’s successor for 2025 before the Dutchman’s title-clinching dominance at Red Bull quashed any immediate move.
Talks lingered into potential 2026 deals, fueled by Mercedes’ anticipated resurgence under the new chassis and engine rules. Yet, with Verstappen locked in at Red Bull through next year—and expressing no rush to jump ship—the conversation has cooled.
“Everyone’s calling everyone”
Vermeulen, speaking to De Telegraaf, sought to normalize the chatter, insisting it’s all part of the F1 game. But he also casually name-dropped Leclerc into the mix.
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“It’s not all that exciting, you know,” Vermeulen told De Telegraaf.
“Everyone’s calling everyone. Or don’t you think Toto is calling Charles Leclerc? That’s just another puzzle everyone’s trying to solve for themselves.
“And everyone’s selfish, wanting the best for themselves. Which is logical.”
Eyes on Leclerc Amid Ferrari Doubts
Vermeulen’s nod to Leclerc underscores the fluid nature of loyalties as 2026 approaches, a year set to scramble the grid with sweeping changes to car designs and power units.
The Monegasque driver, a Ferrari lifer with unwavering faith in his team’s potential, could face tough choices if the Scuderia stumbles again in delivering a title contender.
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For now, Leclerc’s dream remains tied to red, but Vermeulen’s revelation suggests Mercedes is hedging its bets, keeping lines open to one of the grid’s most consistent performers.
But Wolff’s outside interest is rather surprising given his team’s proclaimed commitment to both George Russell and young gun Kimi Antonelli for the future.
The Austrian recently confirmed the duo will spearhead the Silver Arrows in 2026, praising Russell’s experience and Antonelli’s raw talent despite the rookie’s hiccups, including a recent clash with Leclerc at Zandvoort.
This public backing – framed as a “new chapter” for the team – raises eyebrows about Wolff’s side pursuits, hinting at contingency plans should Antonelli’s development falter or Russell seek pastures new.
While Vermeulen’s comments downplay the intrigue – “everyone’s calling everyone” – they underline a broader truth: Formula 1’s 2027 driver market is already shaping up to be as volatile as the sport’s technical overhaul in 2026.
For now, Verstappen remains loyal to Red Bull and Leclerc remains committed to Ferrari. But in a championship built on shifting sands, conversations today could easily set the stage for shocking moves tomorrow.
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