Wolff declares 'silly season cancelled' after Verstappen Red Bull contract extension

Toto Wolff declared 'silly season is officially cancelled' after Max Verstappen signed a new Red Bull contract through 2030. The Mercedes boss had long been linked with a move for the Dutchman, but insists his own lineup of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli was always secure.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's extension removes the biggest variable from the driver market. With all top-four team drivers now under contract for next season — barring Isack Hadjar — teams can finally focus on racing rather than speculation.

The details:

• Verstappen's new deal ends any immediate hopes of a Mercedes switch, with Wolff telling Sky Sports: "We are committed to George and Kimi... Now, silly season is officially cancelled."
• Wolff also joked that Verstappen will drive a Mercedes GT3 car at the Nordschleife, meaning he's "staying in the family."
• Verstappen admitted he had doubts early in the season, telling Laurent Mekies not to ask about his future after the first few races.
• After talks with Red Bull, the FIA, and F1, he felt encouraged to stay. He also hinted his contract length could allow him to reassess when "the V8s come in."

What's next:

With the driver market settled at the front, attention turns fully to the 2026 season. Verstappen's long-term commitment gives Red Bull stability, while Mercedes moves forward with Russell and Antonelli. The next big question is whether this truly ends the speculation — or merely postpones it.