Max Verstappen responds to Toto Wolff statements about Mercedes interest

Max Verstappen has issued a candid response to speculation over a potential switch to the Mercedes F1 team.

The four-time champion has been linked with a move to the Brackley-based squad across the last year despite having a contract in place at Red Bull until 2028.

However, the contract is believed to include performance clauses, placing Verstappen's Red Bull future in doubt.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has not ruled out the speculation that he has carried out talks with Verstappen, insisting he is doing his job as team principal to explore the entire driver market.

Speaking to Viaplay, Verstappen would not deliver a straight answer when asked about the links to Mercedes.

“I do not have to add much to that,” the 27-year-old said. 

“The more I say about it, the more it will be reported in the media. And I certainly do not want that. I determine my own future.”

Verstappen's chances of winning a fifth championship this year hang in the balance as McLaren look to flesh out its advantage in the standings.

The Dutchman suggested there is still time to make an impression in the title fight, highlighting the coming races as crucial.

“Of course there will be updates, so I can't immediately say that it is now... I can't really give a definitive answer about whether it is a success or not,” he said.

“Around the summer break I think it will be clear what will happen this season in terms of performance. 

“But it is not that I suddenly think more now than last year or the years before. I am very relaxed about everything, I just do my thing.”