[GUEST ACCESS MODE: Data is scrambled or limited to provide examples. Make requests using your API key to unlock full data. Check https://lunarcrush.ai/auth for authentication information.]  This is Formula X [@ThisIsFormu1a1](/creator/twitter/ThisIsFormu1a1) on x 6028 followers Created: 2025-07-16 21:40:40 UTC What stands in the way of Max Verstappen's move to Mercedes: — Mercedes is eager to bring Max Verstappen onboard for 2026, viewing him as the ideal successor for Lewis Hamilton. Toto Wolff has been vocal about this since early 2024. However, the main challenge lies in convincing Verstappen and navigating his current contract situation with Red Bull Racing. — George Russell's contract with Mercedes is nearing its end, creating potential space for Verstappen. Russell has acknowledged that his contract extension is on hold due to ongoing discussions between Toto Wolff and Verstappen's camp. He expressed a desire to stay with Mercedes, ideally with a long-term deal, but understands he is not the first choice. — Internally, Mercedes anticipates that Verstappen will likely remain with Red Bull. However, the fact that Russell's contract has not been extended suggests Mercedes is still hopeful for a slim chance of securing Verstappen. — Ola Källenius, CEO of the Mercedes-Benz Group, has reportedly approved the signing of Verstappen, with a contract ready for his signature. Despite this, Mercedes has dismissed reports from Italian media as "nonsense," emphasizing that Verstappen must first decide if he wants to leave Red Bull. — Verstappen's contract with Red Bull runs through 2028 and includes performance clauses that complicate a potential move. Mercedes is not willing to pay the estimated XXX million euro buyout sum to Red Bull, making the situation more complex. — If Red Bull, under Laurent Mekies' leadership, can regain Verstappen's trust, he would likely remain with the team. However, if trust is not restored, both parties may need to find a way to part ways amicably. Helmut Marko's leadership at Red Bull could facilitate a smoother separation if necessary. #maxverstappen 🇳🇱 #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪 VIA: [gpblog]  XXX engagements  **Related Topics** [red bull](/topic/red-bull) [red bull racing](/topic/red-bull-racing) [lewis hamilton](/topic/lewis-hamilton) [onboard](/topic/onboard) [verstappen](/topic/verstappen) [max verstappen](/topic/max-verstappen) [mercedes](/topic/mercedes) [formula 1](/topic/formula-1) [Post Link](https://x.com/ThisIsFormu1a1/status/1945599491434057859)
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This is Formula X @ThisIsFormu1a1 on x 6028 followers
Created: 2025-07-16 21:40:40 UTC
What stands in the way of Max Verstappen's move to Mercedes:
— Mercedes is eager to bring Max Verstappen onboard for 2026, viewing him as the ideal successor for Lewis Hamilton. Toto Wolff has been vocal about this since early 2024. However, the main challenge lies in convincing Verstappen and navigating his current contract situation with Red Bull Racing.
— George Russell's contract with Mercedes is nearing its end, creating potential space for Verstappen. Russell has acknowledged that his contract extension is on hold due to ongoing discussions between Toto Wolff and Verstappen's camp. He expressed a desire to stay with Mercedes, ideally with a long-term deal, but understands he is not the first choice.
— Internally, Mercedes anticipates that Verstappen will likely remain with Red Bull. However, the fact that Russell's contract has not been extended suggests Mercedes is still hopeful for a slim chance of securing Verstappen.
— Ola Källenius, CEO of the Mercedes-Benz Group, has reportedly approved the signing of Verstappen, with a contract ready for his signature. Despite this, Mercedes has dismissed reports from Italian media as "nonsense," emphasizing that Verstappen must first decide if he wants to leave Red Bull.
— Verstappen's contract with Red Bull runs through 2028 and includes performance clauses that complicate a potential move. Mercedes is not willing to pay the estimated XXX million euro buyout sum to Red Bull, making the situation more complex.
— If Red Bull, under Laurent Mekies' leadership, can regain Verstappen's trust, he would likely remain with the team. However, if trust is not restored, both parties may need to find a way to part ways amicably. Helmut Marko's leadership at Red Bull could facilitate a smoother separation if necessary.
#maxverstappen 🇳🇱 #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪
VIA: [gpblog]
XXX engagements
Related Topics red bull red bull racing lewis hamilton onboard verstappen max verstappen mercedes formula 1