F1 2024

[Martini]

According to F1-insider.com Mercedes and the Verstappen team, comprising the driver himself, his father Jos, and manager Raymond Vermeulen, will engage in concrete negotiations in the two weeks following the Florida event and the European opener in Imola.

Mercedes F1 team shareholders Toto Wolff, CEO Ola Källenius, and Sir James Ratcliffe (Ineos) intend to meet with the Verstappen clan.

During these discussions, the Dutchman will determine whether he intends to transition to Mercedes next year. This is facilitated by an exit clause in his contract, stipulating that if his mentor and confidant Helmut Marko (Red Bull motorsport consultant) is no longer part of the team, Verstappen can depart Red Bull early. Marko is reportedly willing to support Verstappen in this decision if necessary.

However, Verstappen wants to gauge Mercedes' seriousness during the talks and assess how much the struggling automaker is willing to accommodate his demands.

Mercedes will produce a better car for the 2025 season. Consequently, he desires to bring key Red Bull technicians alongside him.

Mercedes is determined to secure Verstappen as Lewis Hamilton's successor, with Hamilton poised to join Ferrari.

This interest is evidenced by the presence of not only team boss Wolff but also CEO Källenius and the British billionaire Sir Ratcliffe at the meeting.

The trio is purportedly prepared to orchestrate one of the most substantial deals in motorsport history for their desired driver.

With Hamilton's salary of over 50 million euros annually available in 2025, along with a reinvestment of the $104 million profit recorded by the team in the 2023 financial year, Mercedes is in a strong financial position.

Additionally, Mercedes aims to offer Verstappen a lucrative, long-term brand ambassador contract, ensuring his affiliation with the team even after retiring.

INEOS owner Sir James Ratcliffe, a sports enthusiast and one of Britain's wealthiest individuals, is also prepared to offer substantial financial incentives to secure Verstappen's services.

With bonuses and special payments, Verstappen could potentially earn around 150 million euros annually.