Max Verstappen’s manager names the other driver Toto Wolff will be ‘calling’ over Mercedes seat

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Toto Wolff maintains an interest in Max Verstappen, even though a move to Mercedes won’t be possible in 2026. But Raymond Vermeulen says another star driver is on his radar too.

George Russell has a multi-year contract extension on the table, and will sign it after addressing the final details. Teammate Kimi Antonelli will also renew.

Given the performance disparity between the two drivers, it’s likely that Antonelli will be the driver who still has to prove himself. Russell, one of only four drivers to win a Grand Prix this year, should have more security.

Wolff knows that dream target Verstappen could be on the market for 2027 if Red Bull don’t deliver a competitive car. And there was a feeling that negotiations this year were focused more on a future move than an immediate transfer.

Raymond Vermeulen believes Toto Wolff is in contact with Charles Leclerc

Speaking to De Telegraaf, Vermeulen, Verstappen’s manager, played down the significance of his conversations with Wolff. He says the Austrian has other options in mind too.

It may seem like Wolff is personally determined to sign the world champion at all costs. But Vermeulen says he also has an interest in Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.

Though his deal runs until the end of 2029, Leclerc could activate an exit clause next year if Ferrari struggle under the new regulations. Should he become available, it will have a seismic impact on the F1 driver market.

Leclerc has almost reached the all-time top 10 for pole positions (27), and is only two podiums away from a half-century. He’s also comfortably dispatched seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton this season.

“It’s not all that exciting, you know,” said Vermeulen. “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.”

Why Toto Wolff was publicly critical of Mercedes target Charles Leclerc

Leclerc is considering his future at Ferrari, according to leaks from his inner circle. Vermeulen isn’t the first to suggest that Wolff is a particularly strong admirer.

Ferrari will do everything they can to keep Leclerc, including making significant changes to the team’s structure. A product of their academy, he’s raced for their F1 team since 2019.

• READ MORE: All you need to know about Mercedes F1 Team from team principal to lineage

Just like Verstappen, there’s a strong emotional connection at play. Leclerc’s dream has always been to win with Ferrari and he will need a lot of convincing if he’s to give that up.

Wolff criticised Leclerc after his aggressive move on Russell during the recent race in the Netherlands, but his words weren’t harsh enough to make negotiations problematic.