Jos Verstappen spotted with Wolff in Canada as Verstappen addresses F1 future

The former Formula 1 driver and father of the four-time world champion was seen speaking with Wolff inside the Mercedes hospitality unit, with the pair engaged in what appeared to be a lengthy discussion amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding Verstappen’s long-term commitment to Red Bull Racing.

The timing of the meeting has inevitably fuelled further speculation, with Verstappen recently voicing his frustrations over the current technical regulations in Formula 1. The Dutchman has repeatedly criticised the existing ruleset, at times describing it as fundamentally flawed and “anti-racing”.

Although Verstappen has previously hinted at making a decision on his future in the sport, he has also been strongly linked with a potential move to Mercedes. Throughout much of the 2025 season, until he confirmed his commitment to Red Bull, the 28-year-old was widely rumoured to be on the radar of the Brackley-based team.

Despite that confirmation, talk of a possible switch has not completely disappeared. More recently, McLaren team boss Zak Brown suggested that Mercedes would be the most likely destination should Verstappen ever decide to leave Red Bull.

The images of Jos Verstappen speaking with Wolff are expected to add further fuel to ongoing speculation about a potential future move to Mercedes.

Meanwhile, Verstappen himself has offered a more positive tone regarding his Formula 1 future. The reigning world champion recently welcomed the FIA’s proposed changes for the 2027 season, which will shift the balance of power more towards internal combustion engines rather than battery power systems.

When asked whether the regulatory direction could influence his long-term future in the sport, the Red Bull driver suggested it could play a role, noting that improved racing quality remains an important factor in his decision-making.

Earlier, GPblog reported that the Red Bull outfit is considering McLaren driver Oscar Piastri as a serious option should Verstappen eventually depart the team. While there is currently no indication that the four-time world champion is planning to leave, whether for a sabbatical or a switch to another outfit, it cannot be ruled out entirely.

This comes amid a challenging start to the season for Verstappen under the widely criticised 2026 regulations, as well as the departure of several key figures from Red Bull in recent years.