The current gap in pace between Red Bull and Mercedes has essentially diluted their previous rivalry, with Wolff’s team having won just a single Grand Prix in the past two seasons. It’s a far cry from the 2021 campaign when tensions between the two camps were at fever pitch, as Verstappen went toe-to-toe with Lewis Hamilton for the title.

The culmination of that season continues to divide the sport, with the Dutchman winning his first world crown following the controversial Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. But he was only confirmed as champion after Mercedes protested against FIA race director Michael Masi’s notorious safety car procedure, and after losing that verdict they stated their intention to appeal before dropping that course of action four days later.

But remarkably, Mercedes are now being linked with a move for Verstappen amid the unrest at Red Bull, with team principal Christian Horner having being accused of inappropriate behaviour by a female member of staff. And Verstappen has given Wolff a glimmer of hope in his pursuit by explaining he’s moved on from previous disagreements. 

“Look, a few years ago there was of course a little more tension between us and Mercedes, I would like to say a little more, yes,” he told De Limburger. But that can all be forgiven and forgotten. That’s true on both sides.”

The Dutchman also said he could ‘understand’ why Wolff wanted to get him on board, but then implied he was unlikely to move to a team currently struggling. But he also claimed that Mercedes have had a previous opportunity to sign him as a teenager, one they inadvertently missed.

“But that (forgiving Wolff) doesn’t mean I think I should be driving somewhere else right now,” he added. “In addition, Mercedes does not have the fastest car at the moment, that really is the Red Bull.