Mercedes is actively pursuing a high-profile driver lineup for the 2026 Formula 1 season, with team principal Toto Wolff confirming ongoing talks to sign reigning four-time world champion Max Verstappen, who is currently under contract with Red Bull Racing through 2028. Verstappen reportedly has a clause allowing him to leave Red Bull early if performance targets are not met, and recent developments, including the departure of Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, have intensified speculation about Verstappen's future. Mercedes driver George Russell, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, acknowledged the discussions between Mercedes and Verstappen but expressed confidence in his own future with the team. Russell indicated he is close to renewing his contract and is prepared to remain with Mercedes regardless of whether Verstappen or another driver, such as Kimi Antonelli, joins the team. The potential pairing of Verstappen and Russell at Mercedes is seen as a major shakeup in the F1 driver market, with negotiations reportedly progressing ahead of the 2025 British Grand Prix and the summer break. Verstappen's brother-in-law, Nelson Piquet Jr., inadvertently fueled rumors by suggesting Verstappen could race for Mercedes next season, mentioning Antonelli as a possible teammate. Mercedes plans to finalize its 2026 driver lineup over the upcoming summer break, with Wolff publicly confirming interest in Verstappen and discussing the strategic importance of the potential signing.