Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has claimed that George Russell is certain to pen a contract extension to remain with the team in Formula 1 beyond the current campaign.
Russell, alongside team-mate Andrea Kimi Antonelli, has been made to wait to receive a concrete assurance over his seat as he doesn’t have a deal in place for 2026.
The Briton prompted heightened speculation to ensue about his prospects when he leaked that Mercedes had engaged in renewed discussions with Max Verstappen.
However, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff asserted in the build-up to last month’s Belgian Grand Prix that he intends to retain Russell and Antonelli in an unchanged line-up.
That is all but guaranteed to be the case as Verstappen, whose exit clause will not become active, disclosed last week that he will continue with Red Bull next season.
And amid reports that a prospective renewal has been agreed between the two parties, Wolff has stressed that Russell will race with Mercedes into F1’s rules change.
“Well, George has always had good cards, because he has delivered since 2018,” Wolff told media including Motorsport Week.
“There wasn’t a season he wasn’t there, and nothing changed that in our thinking for next year.
“So, just because you don’t talk outside doesn’t mean that things are progressing in your relationship internally, and when it comes to contract, let’s see.
“We will come out and say what kind of term we’ve put forward, but definitely, he’s staying. The team is strong. He has shown it today again.”
Russell relaxed about Mercedes contract delay
Russell, who added to his podium haul with third at the Hungaroring, reiterated prior to last weekend that he has never harboured concern that he might lose his drive.
“The truth is I’ve never feared losing my seat,” Russell, who is now 15 points behind Verstappen in the Drivers’ Championship, expressed.
“That’s not even been on the table once this year. Even though, of course, you guys like to make a big deal out of it.
“But now it’s been a long time that maybe 12 months ago I was a bit more anxious and wanted to get something sorted or confirmed for ‘26.
“Maybe six months ago, I felt the same. But now I’m performing better than ever. I still feel I’ve got more to give. I’ve waited so long.
“I want to go on holiday next week and enjoy the break. And there is no time pressure on my side.
“There’s no time pressure from the team side. So whenever we come to an agreement, we’ll get it done. But it’s got to be right both ways.”
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