Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff joked that the team already has Max Verstappen for the "real hero races" during the annual Dutch media session at Zandvoort. Wolff referenced their successful GT3 collaboration through the Red Bull Mercedes project, noting that paths have already crossed in endurance racing rather than Formula 1. He highlighted the Nürburgring 24 Hours as the ultimate test, contrasting it with F1 circuits that have "massive gravel traps and flat run-off zones." Wolff praised Verstappen's Winward Mercedes-AMG GT3 efforts and playfully suggested inviting Emmanuel Collard's Garage Racing Dacia Logan team to an actual Mercedes event.

When asked about a future F1 partnership, Wolff remained noncommittal, stating nobody knows the driver market in two to three years. He emphasized the mindset of collaboration across karting, GTs, or other joint projects. The session continued the tradition of candid remarks, with Wolff recalling past moments including AI-generated images and previous contract discussions.