“Russell fights Toto with his own medicine”, says Nico Rosberg amid contract extension speculations

George Russell’s future at Mercedes may seem secure after Max Verstappen announced he is staying at Red Bull at least until the end of 2026, but with just 8 races left in the season, the team still hasn’t announced his contract extension.

While both sides insist a deal is inevitable, the delay is leading to many speculations at the paddock.

Nico Rosberg drops George Russell salary tease in Mercedes contract stand-off:

— Nico Rosberg hinted at salary and sponsor issues with George Russell yet to sign a new Mercedes contract. Rosberg sees Russell “fighting Toto Wolff with his own medicine” as Russell has not yet… pic.twitter.com/UyDuqPAy5V

— This is Formula 1 (@ThisIsFormu1a1) September 10, 2025

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Team boss Toto Wolff has repeatedly downplayed the urgency, but negotiations appear to be dragging on longer than expected.

With Mercedes already confirming Kimi Antonelli for 2026, the focus remains firmly on tying down their four-time Grand Prix winner.

Former Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg, speaking on Sky Sports’ F1 Show podcast, hinted at where the stumbling blocks might be. He suggested Russell’s frustrations could stem from salary and sponsorship commitments.

“It’s horrible to negotiate with Toto,” Rosberg said. “He just disappears off planet Earth when you’re trying to get better terms. I suffered a lot! Now, it’s George doing the reverse to Toto, he’s fighting Toto with his own medicine.”

Reports have indicated that Mercedes are unwilling to match Lando Norris’ salary, despite Russell believing he belongs in the same roster as him. Rosberg agreed, noting that Russell “can drive at Lando’s level and can win races and championships if he has the car,” making the pay gap a natural source of tension.

Another issue is the number of sponsor commitments. Top F1 drivers can spend up to 60 days a year fulfilling marketing obligations—something Russell is said to want reduced in his new deal.