George Russell has stated he never believed his Formula 1 seat at Mercedes for 2026 was in jeopardy, emphasizing that the real uncertainty only involved who would join him as team-mate. The 27-year-old’s contract, which expires at the end of the 2025 season, has been the subject of intense discussion, especially with rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s contract also ending then and rumors swirling around Max Verstappen potentially moving to Mercedes.
Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull, confirmed last month by the four-time world champion himself, ended much of the speculation and solidified expectations that both Russell and Antonelli will continue with Mercedes. Despite Antonelli, 19, having a challenging rookie year compared to Russell, who won in Canada and currently sits fourth in the world championship, there was talk Verstappen might still be considered as a partner for Antonelli.
Russell’s Perspective on Contract Discussions and Team Dynamics
Speaking before the Dutch Grand Prix, Russell clarified his position, saying,
“No, not at all, to be honest. It was more of a question of who my team-mate was going to be.”
He added that he views the sport rationally, noting the team never felt the immediate need to finalize his deal.
“I didn’t really feel I needed to push it so much when it got to a certain point. I believe in myself more than ever.”
Russell highlighted his longstanding confidence in his abilities:
“I’ve always believed in myself, and my results have always shown that. It’s not just the form of this year, but through my whole career since the age of 10 years old. So, yeah, if you back yourself and if you perform, you’ll never have anything to worry about.”
—George Russell, Mercedes Driver
He also acknowledged that Mercedes exploring Verstappen as a potential option was publicly known but downplayed the urgency surrounding his own contract discussions. Returning from the summer break, Russell described the talks as positive but cautious.
Image of: Kimi Antonelli
“We’re in positive talks at the moment,”
he said.
Russell expanded on the timing of negotiations, explaining,
“As I said, nothing was going to happen during the summer break, because from both of our sides there was no reason for it to happen, because we wanted to ultimately enjoy the short time we had off, but things are moving in the right direction.”
He emphasized the lack of pressure on either side:
“So, yeah, hopefully in due course, but as I said before the break, we need to make sure it’s right and there isn’t any time pressure from my side, there’s no time pressure from the team’s side, so it may take longer than ordinarily, but there’s no reason for you guys to read any more into that than the reality.”
Balancing Multiple Priorities During Contract Talks
Russell described managing his contract situation alongside several demands, including sponsorship commitments, car development for the 2026 regulations, and maintaining physical fitness.
“It’s just juggling a lot of priorities between contract performance, development of 2026, sponsorship events, and getting back in shape training-wise, and then of course doing the contract. It’s not like the world stops just to sort it.”
—George Russell, Mercedes Driver
His clear objective remains winning with Mercedes, although the exact duration of any contract extension remains undecided. He stated,
“My goal is to win with Mercedes, it’s clear as that.”
Next season will introduce major regulation changes in Formula 1, leaving the competitive order uncertain, which factors heavily into contract deliberations. Russell pointed out the importance of carefully weighing benefits against risks in deciding the terms.
“You’ve got to look at what would be beneficial for you, but also what the risks are,”
he said, referring to his long relationship with Mercedes from junior ranks onward.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to Mercedes:
“I am loyal to Mercedes, because we’ve supported one another so much over these years, and as I said, I want to win with Mercedes, but everything has to be right and everything has to be aligned.”
Regarding the length of the contract, Russell noted,
“So, whether that means it’s a one-year, whether that means it’s multi-year, that’s sort of what we’re in the process of discussing now and going from there.”
Implications for Mercedes and the Future Line-Up
With Verstappen confirmed at Red Bull for the foreseeable future, Mercedes’ driver lineup for 2026 is likely to include both Russell and Antonelli, whose rookie season has provided him with valuable experience despite some struggles. Russell’s steady performance and strong belief in his deserving place at Mercedes underpin his secure position, while negotiations for his contract extension continue thoughtfully without pressure from either party.
The looming regulation changes in 2026 add complexity to Mercedes’ strategic planning, as both the team and drivers prepare for a reshaped competitive landscape. How these changes will affect Mercedes’ performance and the drivers’ careers remains to be seen, but Russell’s commitment and steady progression provide a solid foundation heading into the new era.
