Russell remains unfazed by rumors suggesting Verstappen could take his seat in 2026, but time to make a decision is running out.
The British Grand Prix weekend has kicked off with an unexpected twist, fueled by increasingly persistent rumors of a possible move by Max Verstappen to Mercedes starting in 2026. There’s been no official confirmation, but the speculation has now reached the key figures involved, who took center stage at the traditional Thursday press conference.
One of the most anticipated drivers at his home race in Silverstone, George Russell appeared anything but unsettled, reaffirming his full confidence in the Mercedes project: “I haven’t signed the renewal yet, but I want to focus on the race and winning my home Grand Prix. The temperatures seem promising—I’m excited. “.
The weather conditions could actually work in Mercedes’ favor. The W15 struggles with high temperatures more than McLaren, Ferrari, and Red Bull. However, at Silverstone, the thermometer isn’t expected to rise above 20 degrees either in qualifying or in the race—an ideal scenario for the Brackley-based team, which, in cool-to-mild conditions, is second only to McLaren.
The Driver Market and Russell’s Composure
Asked about the hottest topic in the paddock—Verstappen’s potential arrival—Russell maintained a calm yet resolute tone: “The team’s trust? There are many conversations that don’t happen in public, but I know what kind of relationship they have with me, and nothing has changed on my end despite the rumors. Performance speaks louder than anything, and I’m not talking to other teams. I feel like I’ve got thick skin—I don’t need to read the news or listen to speculation. I’m focused on driving. You can have a contract, but if you don’t perform, you risk being out—and I’m not in that position. ”.
The number 63 then added: “Every team has two seats available, and it’s normal for everyone to make assessments for the future. I don’t feel offended and, as I’ve said before, I’ll always be open and collaborative with whoever my teammate may be. I want to continue here—I trust Toto Wolff. And it’s only natural that they have to do what’s best for the team. I’m calm and focused on my driving. There will be many unknowns for 2026, both regarding the engine and the fuel. Next year will be my fifth with the team, and I believe that for all of us, consistency will be the best way to start fresh. .
Contracts, uncertainties, and decisions
Russell therefore appears confident about his future with the Anglo-German team, but the contract details tell a more complex story. His current deal expires at the end of 2025 and does not include any automatic renewal option, unlike Kimi Antonelli’s contract, which features a possible extension until 2028 tied to on-track performance.
With the season now more than halfway through and the driver market negotiations growing increasingly intense, number 63 will need to make a decision within a few weeks to avoid being left out of the game ahead of the major 2026 overhaul. It’s a year that could see Mercedes return to the top if the tests on the new engine—considered very promising—are confirmed. Not by chance, as one of the most experienced teams in managing regulatory changes, the Brackley outfit dominated the 2014 technical revolution. And who knows, history might be ready to repeat itself.
Photo: F1
