Mekies: No message behind meeting of Jos Verstappen and Toto Wolff

– Speculation about Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull received new fuel at the Canadian Grand Prix. The trigger was a public conversation between Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff and Jos Verstappen in the paddock of Montreal.

Read more Formula 1 Live Ticker: George Russell with his back against the wall

A photo of the two quickly sparked discussions on social media. After all, Wolff has long been considered an interested party in signing the four-time world champion, whose future is repeatedly a topic despite a contract until the end of 2028.

Mekies dismisses speculation

Red Bull team boss Laurent Mekies, however, sees no special significance in the meeting. “I’ll be honest with you: As exciting as it may look from the outside, I really don’t think there is any special intention behind it,” he explains to Motorsport.com.

Mekies emphasized that conversations between those involved are nothing unusual. “If one of these people wants to talk, it becomes a story anyway. We are constantly talking with Max and Jos. It is completely normal that they also talk with Toto. Max drove a Mercedes GT3 last week at the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring.”

Also, the fact that the conversation took place directly in front of the Mercedes hospitality and within sight of numerous journalists argues against secret negotiations. “That’s why I really don’t think it was part of any plan to send a message.”

Verstappen’s criticism of the rules remains

Regardless, questions about Verstappen’s long-term future in Formula 1 remain. The Dutchman has repeatedly criticized the planned rules for 2026, particularly complaining about what he sees as the excessive importance of energy management.

Read more Hadjar disappointed after Canada qualifying: «Could not deliver»

Recently, Verstappen hinted that the discussed adjustments for 2027 could be a step in the right direction. However, whether the proposals will be implemented is still open, as the agreement sought by the FIA has so far not found sufficient support.

“Max cares about the sport”

Mekies made it clear that Verstappen’s criticism stems from his passion for Formula 1. “Max cares about the sport. The reason he speaks so clearly is that Formula 1 as the pinnacle of motorsport really matters to him.”

Verstappen wants to see cars that can be driven at the limit at all times without drivers being restricted by energy management.

“There was great openness from all involved, from the FIA to Formula 1 to the teams, to say: ‘Yes, we have to do something about it.’ That is why it is encouraging for him and for all of us to see that everyone is willing to take steps to improve. I think that is important for the sport.”

Read more Formula 1 Live Ticker: The race in Canada now live!