Toto Wolff: Mercedes carefully weighing up driver options after Max Verstappen link

Lewis Hamilton's departure to Ferrari has left a spot open alongside George Russell for 2025. 

While numerous candidates are available, including Mercedes junior Andrea Kimi Antonelli and experienced drivers like Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, and Fernando Alonso, attention has turned to Red Bull ace Verstappen. 

Allegations against team principal Christian Horner have led to suggestions of a possible move for the defending world champion. 

Photographs of Wolff with Verstappen Sr. after the Bahrain Grand Prix have intensified rumours. 

Wolff remains cautious, aware that developments with Verstappen and the unresolved situation at Red Bull could impact Mercedes' decision-making process.

"A championship-winning team 17th and 18th, in F2, that's not at all where they should be," Wolff told Motorsport.com.

"I think you can look at him against the team-mate, that is one of the comparisons, and I think Oliver Bearman is a top driver.

"But I think, like I always said, I'm almost guilty of talking too much. We will see how the next few races pan out.

"I'm in no hurry for us to take a decision on drivers. I've been rushed in a hurry by Lewis. So, this time around I'm going to take it easy and evaluate the market."

READ MORE: Jos Verstappen appears to call for Christian Horner to be sacked by Red Bull