Christian Horner spoke about the rumors that Mercedes had conversations with Max Verstappen about a possible transfer, calling it “much ado about nothing,” as speculations intensified in Austria.<\/p>\n
These rumors resurfaced in Spielberg in a context marked by contractual discussions between George Russell and Mercedes, with the Briton’s current contract set to expire at the end of 2025.<\/p>\n
Questioned in Austria about the progress of the negotiations, George Russell stated that he was focusing more on his performances than on the urgency of signing, although he acknowledged that it does help when there’s a pen on the paper.<\/p>\n
He also told Sky Sports F1 that it was completely normal for discussions with drivers like Verstappen to take place.<\/p>\n
For his part, Max Verstappen, the main party concerned, also dismissed the rumors during the weekend in Austria, preferring to focus on the race.<\/p>\n
His boss, Christian Horner, was also questioned on the subject. “It’s a lot of noise, and I think Max is starting to get tired of it,” Christian Horner told Sky Sports F1.<\/p>\n
\u00ab We are very clear about the contract we have with Max until 2028. Everything that is said is purely speculative. In general, we do not pay much attention to this kind of thing. \u00bb<\/p>\n
\u00ab I can understand that George is frustrated about not having a contract yet, but that concerns only him and his team. As for Max, we know exactly where we stand, and so does he. All of this is just noise, and the contract details remain obviously confidential between the two parties. \u00bb<\/p>\n
In the midst of all these speculations, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff confirmed that he and George Russell wished to continue their collaboration, while acknowledging that some discussions were still necessary.<\/b><\/p>\n
“We are clearly very motivated to continue this relationship,” said Toto Wolff in Austria.<\/p>\n
\u00ab Everything is proceeding normally \u2013 we have agreed on a schedule, and we are perfectly on track. It’s obvious that the silly season is starting now. Certain conversations simply need to take place, but this does not change my vision of the team’s future. \u00bb<\/p>\n