But ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Verstappen reiterated that he is not the current favorite as the season begins. “Impossible to know at the moment,” said

Formula 1 defending champion Max Verstappen downplayed Red Bull's chances at Sunday's season-opening Australian Grand Prix, saying the car is slower than their rivals and still working through some issues.

Mercedes team principal and chief executive Toto Wolff has denied rumors on the eve of the Australian Grand Prix weekend that he’s still seeking to sign reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen for 2026.

But, both parties would later distance themselves from the idea of joining forces, Verstappen going on to secure a fourth consecutive World Championship, while Mercedes named their 18-year-old academy graduate Kimi Antonelli as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement, as the seven-time champion departed for Ferrari.

Stefano Domenicali will remain president and chief executive of Formula One until 2029 after extending his contract Wednesday, with drivers led by Lewis Hamilton applauding the move. "We are thrilled to renew Stefano and look forward to his leadership alongside the talented management of Formula 1 for the years ahead,