Wolff fires back at Verstappen’s 2026 complaints as Mercedes switch rumours intensify

07:50, 20 Jul

Updated: 08:37, 20 Jul

byNorberto Mujica

Toto Wolff has fired back at growing criticism of Formula 1’s 2026 regulations, countering complaints from Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, and Lance Stroll over the upcoming 2026 regulations.

The upcoming overhaul will see a, so far, 50:50 split between electric and internal combustion power, a change many drivers fear could dilute F1’s raw racing DNA.

But Wolff, whose Mercedes team is reportedly best-prepared for the new hybrid era, insists the sport is staying true to its roots. "I think the fans need to enjoy watching Formula 1, and Formula 1 needs to stay true to itself that it's a high-performance sport," Wolff told media, including GPblog.

"The best man and best machine wins, so this is what we need to deliver: good racing."

"The best man and best machine wins, so this is what we need to deliver: good racing."

- Toto Wolff, Mercedes F1 CEO and team principal

'Innovation has always been a part of F1'

He also dismissed suggestions that the new cars will be less thrilling to drive. "Some cars have been good fun for the drivers to drive. Some tyres have been good fun, others not. So, in a way, everybody will get used to it."

Wolff admitted the challenge of managing the new energy systems is significant but sees it as an opportunity for innovation.

"Looking at simulations of today, it's very difficult to exactly know how it's going to be next year. It's a super challenging new regulation in making those energy levels last throughout the lap on some of the tracks."

"Clearly, at the moment, it's still challenging. But the pace of innovation is huge, and it's always been the case in Formula 1. I believe that we are on the right trajectory."

Max Verstappen has been linked to a move to Mercedes for over a year now

Wolff makes Mercedes the right place to be for Verstappen in 2026?

As speculation continues over Verstappen’s future with rumours linking him to Mercedes despite his contract with Red Bull Racing running until 2028, Wolff’s optimism will only fuel talk of a potential Silver Arrows resurgence in 2026.

Meanwhile, Red Bull Racing chief advisor Helmut Marko has maintained confidence in their upcoming Red Bull-Ford power unit, whilst also stating that Verstappen is expected to serve out his deal. However, it is understood that Red Bull will not block a move if Verstappen chooses to leave, keeping the door ajar for a shock Mercedes switch.

Wolff, however, was quick to remind everyone that nostalgia for screaming V12s has no place in today’s F1.

"You ask a driver for a good car, give him the strongest, grippiest, less degrading tyres, 1000 horsepower, naturally aspirated V12, and that's what they're going to love. We're just in a different era now."

If Mercedes really are ahead of the game with their power unit, Verstappen’s concerns might soon be irrelevant, especially if he ends up behind the wheel of a Silver Arrow when the new rules arrive.