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Toto Wolff jokes Mercedes already has Max Verstappen for the Nordschleife
During a media roundtable at Zandvoort, the Mercedes boss delivered lighthearted remarks regarding the reigning world champion's future.
By Hans van den Broekma - 2026-08-23T08:06:34.000Z - 2 min read
Paddock tradition dictates that the annual Dutch media roundtable hosted by Toto Wolff at Zandvoort serves up a few unexpected remarks. Over recent seasons, these informal gatherings have frequently generated notable headlines for the Formula 1 press corps. Past sessions have even included substantial announcements, such as the gradual groundwork laid for Kimi Antonelli's eventual promotion to the grid.
This year's gathering proved no exception to the rule, though the tone leaned firmly toward humor rather than formal driver market confirmation. Wolff addressed the persistent speculation surrounding Max Verstappen and his current Red Bull contract with a tongue-in-cheek spin. Instead of discussing a blockbuster grand prix transfer, the Austrian executive steered the conversation toward endurance racing and legendary German tarmac.
Wolff quipped that Mercedes already possesses a version of the championship leader suitable for different motorsport disciplines. Specifically, the team principal joked that they have a Verstappen lined up for the demanding hero races held at the historic Nordschleife circuit. The lighthearted remark immediately amused members of the travelling press and the Mercedes personnel accompanying the media delegation.
While the comments were delivered with a heavy dose of levity, they arrived against a backdrop of ongoing paddock curiosity regarding Verstappen's long-term intentions. Red Bull continues to navigate a turbulent competitive landscape under current regulations, leaving rival teams perpetually alert to any shift in the driver market. Wolff's playful commentary effectively deflected the serious undertones of the inquiry while keeping the reigning champion's name firmly linked to the Silver Arrows in the minds of observers.
For now, the playful jab remains just that, highlighting the relaxed atmosphere surrounding the Dutch Grand Prix weekend media sessions. Wolff has mastered the art of managing media expectations and curiosity through humor, diffusing intense speculation without giving away genuine strategic intentions.
As the Formula 1 season enters its latter stages, the interactions between team principals and the press continue to set the narrative tone in the paddock. Whether any substance ever materializes behind the persistent rumors connecting Verstappen to rival outfits remains entirely unverified by current facts.