George Russell addressed recent rumors about his contract and his future with Mercedes at the FIA Press Conference ahead of the British Grand Prix, firmly stating that he expects to remain with the team next season. The George Russell future at Mercedes topic gained momentum amid speculation linking Max Verstappen with a move to Mercedes, as discussions about Formula 1 driver placements heated up.
Uncertainty Over Russell and Verstappen Contracts Sparks Headlines
Entering the British Grand Prix, much of the focus centered on the contract situations of George Russell at Mercedes and Max Verstappen at Red Bull. With both teams facing pressures in the Constructors’ Championship, and Russell’s contract for next season not yet secured, rumors escalated after Sky Sports Italy suggested that talks involving Verstappen and Mercedes were intensifying. These reports fueled suggestions that big changes could be coming for leading Formula 1 teams.
Russell Reaffirms Commitment to Mercedes
Selected as one of the drivers for the FIA Press Conferences at the British Grand Prix, George Russell took the opportunity to address speculation about his seat. On Thursday, he stated publicly that his intentions are clear regarding the upcoming season.
“I want to continue with Mercedes into the future. The fact is, Toto has never let me down. He’s always given me his word, but he’s also got to do what’s right for his team, which includes me, but it also includes the thousands of people who work for Mercedes,”
—George Russell, Mercedes F1 driver
Facing questions about whether Max Verstappen could potentially replace him at Mercedes, Russell addressed the situation directly. Recent on-track clashes, including an incident at the Spanish Grand Prix where Verstappen made contact after returning a place to Russell, have not rattled the British driver.
“For me, it’s nothing to worry about because I don’t think I’ll be going anywhere. And whoever my teammate will be, it doesn’t concern me either,”
—George Russell, Mercedes F1 driver
He underscored his willingness to race alongside any teammate, making it clear that the possibility of Verstappen joining wouldn’t be a problem for him. Russell also elaborated on the nature of conversations that take place within all leading teams during the season.
“Every team has two seats available and it’s normal that every team is considering what the future holds, and I don’t take that personally because I made it clear from the beginning that I’m happy to be teammates with anybody,”
—George Russell, Mercedes F1 driver
“So, of course there’s lots of conversations, lots of rumours, and all of these being pointed towards me, but from my side, that isn’t really going to be the case.”
—George Russell, Mercedes F1 driver
Russell’s Loyalty and Contact With Other Teams
Russell acknowledged that he has received interest from other teams during contract discussions, though his unique relationship with Mercedes—who also act as his management—limits such approaches. He highlighted his commitment and long-term vision with the Silver Arrows.
“Any teams who did reach out in the past, I said, ‘I am loyal to Mercedes, that’s where my future lies’. And ultimately, Mercedes are my managers, so it has to be dealt through Mercedes in the first place,”
—George Russell, Mercedes F1 driver
According to Russell, while attention from other teams exists, he hasn’t been distracted and remains focused on delivering results for his current team.
“At the end of the day, everything will work itself out, and the likelihood that I’m not at Mercedes next year, I think is exceptionally low.”
—George Russell, Mercedes F1 driver
What Lies Ahead for Mercedes and Russell
With persistent speculation about drivers, including key figures like Russell and Verstappen, driver line-ups for next season remain a major talking point in Formula 1. Russell’s public reaffirmation of his place at Mercedes, along with his openness to any potential new teammate, may help restore some stability within the team and offer fans clarity. As contract discussions continue across the field, Mercedes and Russell appear strongly linked, making a move for Russell highly unlikely for the coming season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened between George Russell and Max Verstappen?
A. MONTREAL — George Russell shared that he was not surprised Max Verstappen did not admit fault for their crash in Spain because “that’s not like him.” Verstappen, showing his frustration, drove into the side of Russell’s car near the end of the Barcelona race. This incident nearly led Verstappen to receive a one-race suspension.