Verstappen reveals alternative route of Mercedes talks

Max Verstappen has suggested he could link up with Mercedes via another path outside of F1.

Earlier this year, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff publicly pursued Verstappen when Lewis Hamilton announced he would be departing for Ferrari.

Wolff's efforts were unsuccessful and Mercedes opted to promote rookie Kimi Antonelli to the full-time spot alongside George Russell.

Verstappen has long voiced his desire to enjoy alternative rating programmes outside of F1 and asserted he will not race in the premier series deep into his career.

When it was put to Verstappen that Wolff declared earlier this year that their paths were likely to cross in the future, Verstappen hinted it could be through endurance racing.

"That's also what I say about not just Formula 1,” Verstappen told Viaplay. 

“I have several goals after Formula 1, such as endurance and my own team. A lot of things come into play and eventually, there has to be a program.

“Who are you going to do that with? Of course, those are also conversations I have."

When Verstappen was asked if Mercedes was an interesting option to pursue such a project, the Dutchman replied: "A lot of teams. 

“Mercedes, Ferrari, Aston Martin. It's not even related to F1 itself. Red Bull, of course, also do a lot outside F1. I keep all the options open, and in the end, I choose what I think is best.”