David Coulthard has described the ongoing delay in finalizing George Russell’s contract for the 2026 Formula 1 season as “bizarre,” noting that Mercedes has yet to reach an agreement with the British driver despite his strong performances. This situation has raised questions about Russell’s future ahead of the new season.
Although Toto Wolff has indicated that a deal is underway, Russell remains unsigned, fueling speculation about the team’s plans as they prepare for key changes within their lineup, including the potential arrival of Max Verstappen.
Russell’s Perspective on His Contract Talks
George Russell has maintained a composed attitude regarding the contract uncertainty, emphasizing that his focus stays on his on-track results. He acknowledged the importance of securing a new deal but made it clear that performance remains his top priority.
It’s not something that I’m pressing massively because, as I’ve always said, the performance is the priority, and I feel with the performance I’m showing at the moment – still in line with the performance I’ve shown over all these years – I’ve got zero reasons to be worried. But obviously it does help if there was pen on paper,
Russell said in June.
He further highlighted the mutual dependency between himself and Mercedes, stressing that the team’s ambition to return to championship-winning form requires having the best personnel in place.
Russell explained,
“I don’t need to chase because I feel that I’m doing a good job. It goes both ways – I need them, they need me, and that’s how it goes. Mercedes are so ambitious, they want to be back on top. They need to understand and think how are they going to bring Mercedes back on top. You need to have the best team principal, you need to have the best drivers in your car, you need to have the best engineers within your team.”
Toto Wolff has publicly praised Russell’s current form, indicating that his driver’s performance is on par with anyone else on the grid, save for one contender. The delay, according to Russell, revolves around decisions about who will occupy Mercedes’ two available seats.
So that’s why I have no concern about the future, but there’s two seats to every team and I guess he needs to think who are those two drivers going to be for those two seats. I guess that’s what the delay is.
David Coulthard Calls the Delay ‘Slightly Bizarre’
Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has expressed surprise that Russell’s contract is not yet finalized, especially given his status as one of the best drivers currently without a confirmed deal. Coulthard suggested that if Mercedes were to make any changes to their driver lineup, it would be unexpected if Russell were to be replaced.
George not being officially signed [for the 2026 season] is slightly bizarre,
Coulthard told F1.com.
Based on the performance right now, even if there was a change in Mercedes’ line-up, you wouldn’t think it would be George who would be the change.
He added that multiple factors are still unresolved and that people are waiting for those pieces to fall into place.
There are a few things we’re all waiting on to fall into place.
Toto Wolff Affirms Commitment to Russell
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has reassured that the team remains fully committed to continuing their relationship with Russell. He acknowledged the ongoing negotiation process but emphasized that the timeline is proceeding as expected.
[We’re] absolutely keen to continue the relationship,
Wolff said, underlining the team’s dedication to Russell.
Everything goes its normal course – we have agreed on timings and we’re absolutely within that framework, and it’s clear silly season starts now. Some conversations you just simply need to have, but it doesn’t change my fundamental opinion about how the team is going to go forwards.
Implications of the Contract Hold-Up for Mercedes and Russell
The delay in signing George Russell for 2026 has intensified interest in Mercedes’ future driver strategy as the team aims to reclaim their position at the top of Formula 1. Russell’s calm but candid remarks underscore the mutual respect between him and the team, while Coulthard’s comments highlight the unexpected nature of the hold-up.
With Mercedes balancing the arrival of high-profile talent like Max Verstappen and their own efforts to secure the best drivers and engineers, the decision-making process is evidently complex. Finalizing Russell’s contract will be crucial for both parties as they seek stability and competitiveness in the evolving F1 landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much was George Russell underweight?
A. Russell’s car was 1.5 kg under the weight limit, which likely saves about half a tenth of a second per lap. This is a small advantage.
If the weight difference is due to tyre wear, he would only benefit from this in the last few laps of the race when the tyres are lighter.