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Victor Petkov
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Mercedes keep the door open for Verstappen with special clause in Russell’s contract
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Toto Wolff wants to make sure Mercedes will be the first option for Max Verstappen if the 4-time World Champion decides to leave Red Bull

Mercedes are preparing a new contract for George Russell that could clear the way for Max Verstappen to join the team in 2027.

According to reports, Russell is expected to sign a new one-year deal with the German team, though even a longer contract would include a 2027 exit clause. Both Russell and rookie teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli are out of contract at the end of this season, but team principal Toto Wolff has publicly assured fans that the current driver lineup will remain the same through 2026.

Behind the scenes, however, Mercedes are keeping one eye  on Verstappen’s future. The team explored the possibility of signing the four-time world champion earlier this year, amid whispers that he could be considering life beyond Red Bull. While Verstappen is tied down to a long-term deal, The Race has reported that he holds an exit clause allowing him to leave if he sits outside the top two in the championship standings by the 2026 summer break.

If Red Bull stumble under the upcoming regulation changes, Verstappen could suddenly hit the market — and Mercedes want to be ready. That’s why Russell’s new contract is expected to give the team flexibility, either through a short-term deal or a break clause that would allow Wolff to make room for Verstappen should the opportunity arise.

For now, Russell is not believed to be angry about the arrangement, though sources suggest he has been left frustrated by how negotiations and media speculation have played out this year.