Verstappen Tops Mercedes’ 2025 Wishlist as Hamilton Exits to Ferrari

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has set his sights on Red Bull’s Max Verstappen to replace Lewis Hamilton in 2025, calling the reigning champion the squad’s \"number one target\" in what could be F1’s most explosive driver shuffle yet. Verstappen, currently contracted to Red Bull until 2028, faces uncertainty amid reported tensions between his father, Jos Verstappen, and Red Bull principal Christian Horner.

Hamilton’s shock move to Ferrari leaves Mercedes scrambling for a superstar replacement. Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz — who clinched victory at Sunday’s Australian Grand Prix — ironically finds himself without a seat for 2025.

\"If I were a decision-maker at Mercedes, I’d go all-in for Max,\" Wolff stated, sparking speculation of a high-stakes bidding war. Could Verstappen swap Red Bull’s 'energy drinks' for Mercedes’ silver arrows? Fans are already meme-ing the drama as F1’s \"Contract Chess Championship.\"

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Wolff puts Verstappen top of Mercedes' wishlist to replace Hamilton

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