Verstappen Slams Wolff Boat Trip ‘Waffling’ Rumors

Max Verstappen has firmly dismissed the swirling speculation about a potential move to Mercedes, taking a swipe at team principal Toto Wolff’s persistent comments on the matter.

Speaking ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, the Red Bull driver made it clear he’s committed to his current team through 2026, putting an end to months of rumors fueled by Wolff’s public overtures. “I’ve been clear from the start,” Verstappen said. “People love to stir things up, but my focus is on racing and winning with Red Bull.”

The four-time world champion didn’t hold back on Wolff’s approach, likening it to empty chatter. “All this talk about boats or whatever—it doesn’t change anything,” he added, referencing Wolff’s recent analogy about not missing the boat on signing top talent. Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull runs until 2028, but exit clauses had kept the door ajar for a switch, especially amid earlier team tensions.

Mercedes, still searching for a second driver alongside George Russell after Lewis Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari, has openly courted Verstappen. Wolff has repeatedly hinted at interest, saying paths might cross in the future. But Verstappen shut that down: “It’s flattering, sure, but I’m not going anywhere right now.”

This comes as Red Bull fights to maintain its edge in a tightly contested 2025 season, with Verstappen leading the standings but facing stiff challenges from McLaren and Ferrari. His decision stabilizes the Milton Keynes outfit, which has already locked in Sergio Pérez for another year.

For Mercedes, the hunt continues. With young prospect Andrea Kimi Antonelli in the mix, Wolff now faces pressure to finalize his lineup before the new regulations hit in 2026. Verstappen’s stance shifts the spotlight back to the track, where he aims to extend his dominance this weekend at the Hungaroring.