Mercedes is actively pursuing a potential signing of reigning four-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen for the 2026 season, as confirmed by team principal Toto Wolff. Verstappen, currently under contract with Red Bull Racing through 2028, is reportedly open to leaving Red Bull, with negotiations intensifying ahead of the British Grand Prix. George Russell, Mercedes' current lead driver whose contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, acknowledged the talks between Mercedes and Verstappen and expressed confidence that he will remain with the team for the next season. Wolff has indicated that Mercedes plans to finalize its 2026 driver lineup during the upcoming summer break. The prospect of Verstappen joining Mercedes alongside Russell has generated considerable attention, with both Wolff and Russell addressing the situation publicly. Russell has also conveyed that he is prepared to continue with Mercedes regardless of whether Verstappen becomes his teammate. The discussions represent a potential major shift in the Formula 1 driver market, given Verstappen's status and existing contract with Red Bull.