George Russell is reportedly close to finalizing a contract extension with Mercedes following an impressive first half of the 2025 season that included a victory at the Canadian Grand Prix. Although the British driver has delivered consistent performances, his deal for the 2026 season has not yet been signed, as Mercedes evaluates various factors, including the ongoing discussion about Max Verstappen‘s future.
Mercedes continues to weigh the possibility of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen potentially moving teams, but indications suggest Verstappen is likely to remain with Red Bull for the next season. This would allow Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff to focus fully on solidifying his current driver lineup, consisting of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli.
According to reports from AMuS, negotiations between Mercedes and Russell have made significant progress, with a new contract expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks. Despite ongoing rumors, Russell has maintained a calm attitude about his future in the sport, emphasizing his focus remains on racing.
Russell first joined Mercedes at the beginning of the 2022 season after three years with Williams F1 from 2019 to 2021. His rise within the team has been marked by consistent high-level performances that are now compelling Mercedes to secure his services for the foreseeable future.
Russell’s Perspective on His Contract Talks with Mercedes
When discussing his contract status, George Russell expressed that he is not overly concerned about the situation, placing his confidence in his recent performances. Speaking to Sky Sports before the Belgian Grand Prix, the 27-year-old said:
“I don’t lose any sleep over it, I don’t really think about it, because as I’ve always said the best thing you can do is drive fast on track. Obviously, we are talking in the background. There’s nothing for me to be concerned about whatsoever, but there’s nothing to announce. The situation we find ourselves in now, I don’t think, is abnormal.”
“I’m performing the best I’ve ever performed. I have the majority of the points for the team. So, if you look at the facts, you would argue my job is safe. That’s why I’m not concerned at all. If I stop performing, maybe I need to be concerned, but I need to be more concerned about my performance, not about my future.”
When asked about the speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s future, Russell commented:
“Everybody talks. There are long-term futures at play as well. For drivers, the teams are not just thinking about one year in front, you’re thinking about two, three, four, five years ahead.”
Current Standing and Competitive Context
In the 2025 season, George Russell is currently 18 points behind Max Verstappen in the driver standings and has matched Verstappen’s number of podium finishes. This close competition highlights Russell’s growing prominence in Formula 1 and emphasizes why Mercedes is keen to retain him amid the shifting driver landscape.
The uncertainty around team lineups as Red Bull and Mercedes plan for the future adds a layer of tension to contract negotiations, but Russell’s steady performances provide reassurance for Mercedes as they finalize plans for the 2026 season and beyond.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is George Russell 63?
A. Russell took number 63 from a go-kart his brother was renting back then.
Q. Why is George Russell number 63?
A. George Russell, who drives car #63 for Mercedes, has a special connection to his car number. It’s a part of his family history. He explained that “sixty-three was my brother’s number.”
