While George Russell Mercedes contract expires at end of 2025, chances are ‘exceptionally low’ that he will be denied an extension amid Max Verstappen rumors.
As the Formula 1 paddock buzzes with talk of potential seismic shifts in the driver market for 2026 F1, Russell has made it clear that his commitment to Mercedes remains unwavering and he sees no reason to engage in talks with rival teams despite the uncertainty generated by Verstappen’s possible move.
Russell who has been a part of the Mercedes family since 2017 and a race driver since 2022 finds himself in the spotlight as his current contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season.
The 27-year-old Briton has enjoyed a successful stint with the team, notching up four Grand Prix victories and currently sitting fourth in the 2025 Drivers’ Championship standings. His performances, particularly a race win and four additional podiums this season have only strengthened his position within the team.
Speculation regarding Russell’s future intensified as rumors emerged about Mercedes holding “ongoing” talks with reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen who is under contract with Red Bull Racing until 2028.
Despite Verstappen’s contractual obligations, it is widely understood that there are mechanisms in place that could allow him to leave Red Bull under certain circumstances.
This has fueled talk that Mercedes could make a bold move to sign Verstappen, especially as the team prepares for the sweeping technical regulation changes set for 2026 F1.
Russell, however, responded to the rumors on Thursday in a press conference at Silverstone ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix.
When questioned about his future he stated: “I mean, 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, I’m happy to be team-mates with anybody. So, of course, there’s lots of conversations, lots of rumours, and all of these are being pointed towards me, but from my side, that isn’t really going to be the case.”
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Russell’s confidence is rooted in his belief that his performances have more than justified his place in the team, and he remains focused solely on delivering results on track.
“I want to continue with Mercedes into the future,” Russell said. “The fact is, Toto Wolff 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.
“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. So just focus on the driving.
“The likelihood I’m not at Mercedes next year, I think, is exceptionally low.”
The backdrop to these statements is a dynamic and unpredictable driver market, with several top teams and drivers evaluating their options ahead of the 2026 regulation overhaul.
Russell has been spotted interacting with figures from other teams including McLaren’s Zak Brown and Alpine’s Flavio Briatore as well as Red Bull’s Christian Horner.
However, he insists that these talks have not progressed to formal negotiations and rebuffs any serious approaches in favor of remaining with Mercedes.
“Any teams who did reach out in the past, I said, look, I am loyal to Mercedes, that’s where my future lies,” he added. “And ultimately, Mercedes are my managers, so it has to be dealt through Mercedes in the first place.
“There hasn’t been a lack of interest, let’s say. But I’ve been focused on my side. I am loyal to Mercedes. So, at the end of the day, everything will work itself out.
“I feel I’m performing better than ever, and performance speaks for everything.”
