Toto Wolff's recent remarks about Max Verstappen have introduced a new layer of complexity into George Russell's Mercedes future. The British driver has already been pushed to consider joining Audi for 2028.
While Mercedes will continue to groom Kimi Antonelli, Russell's need to share the car with the young Italian has raised questions about his future. Wolff told Sky Sport Germany that Antonelli must be given time and said Verstappen was a driver at the highest level.
Wolff said, "We need to give Kimi time to develop. Max is driving at the peak of his abilities, capable of anything. They respect each other and come from different generations. Having both on the same team would create a completely different starting point."
The Mercedes chief is not concerned about handling a potential superstar tandem, citing his experience with Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.
He added, "It doesn't scare me, I've dealt with tougher situations with Rosberg and Hamilton. I would probably handle it better today."
Most importantly, the Mercedes team principal said, "We're not afraid to have both drivers in the team, sooner or later."
George Russell Could Explore Audi Opportunity
Those comments follow Russell's future being pushed towards Audi. Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner told Motorsport.com that Audi might be a future possibility for the Mercedes driver in 2028. As the team aims to improve its position in Formula 1, the growing works project could prove to be an interesting prospect for Audi.
(Photo by Kym Illman/Getty Images)
Steiner suggested several drivers could be interested in Audi when a seat potentially becomes available.
Steiner said, "Carlos [Sainz] for sure. I think George is also looking around now, knowing that he's now with Kimi."
Verstappen-Antonelli Plan Could Change Everything
Steiner thinks that the situation of Russell with Antonelli may make him think about other options instead of staying with Mercedes for the foreseeable future.
The F1 veteran said, "He doesn't want to stay with Kimi for the rest of his life, because there he knows where he is for the rest of his life. So, he is trying to find new opportunities."
While it's not confirmed that Russell will leave, it's certainly an interesting possibility. If Mercedes eventually decides to go for Verstappen to drive with Antonelli, then Russell may be one of the biggest names on the 2028 market.