'Mercedes have Verstappen's contract ready, more expensive than Hamilton'

Toto Wolff isn't keeping it a secret: Mercedes have set their sights on Max Verstappen. The Dutchman's contract is said to be ready, and if the triple-world champion agrees, he will start earning more than Lewis Hamilton. Germany's Auto, Motor und Sport reported this.

'Mercedes have already approved Verstappen's salary'

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has already indicated that he is willing to wait for Verstappen. Should the time come for the triple world champion to make the switch, his contract would already be ready, according to AMUS. The Dutchman's potential salary is said to have already been approved internally. That amount is reportedly higher than what Hamilton currently earns at the German F1 team.

The silly season in Formula 1 started particularly early this year compared to previous years. That has everything to do with the shocking transfer of Hamilton, who is swapping Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025. This suddenly frees up a seat at a top team and leaves one of the most successful drivers of the moment, Carlos Sainz, without a seat.

Moreover, Verstappen's switch to Mercedes has suddenly become negotiable due to the turmoil within Red Bull Racing and around team boss Christian Horner. However, Verstappen has made it clear that he has no reason to leave as long as some crucial people (notably Helmut Marko) remain in place.