Follow usGeorge Russell thinks that Mercedes’ ongoing interest in Max Verstappen may be a factor behind the delay in renewing his own contract with the team.
The 27-year-old Briton is approaching the end of his current deal and while many in the paddock expected an extension to be a formality, no announcement has yet been made.
Speaking on Thursday, Russell acknowledged that discussions were underway but indicated that nothing concrete had been agreed.
“Yes, a little bit. There’s no substantial news yet,” he said when asked about negotiations. “It’s not something I’m pushing for in a big way… I don’t have any reason to be concerned. But obviously it helps if there was something signed.”
George Russell has suggested Mercedes’ continued pursuit of Max Verstappen is delaying an extension to his expiring contract 📑👀 pic.twitter.com/7cboiH4f2o
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) June 26, 2025
However, in a more pointed remark during a later interview with Sky Sports, Russell appeared to allude to Mercedes’ behind-the-scenes interest in Verstappen, suggesting the team’s ambition to return to the top of Formula 1 may be driving their broader search.
“For my part, I don’t think I have anything to worry about,” he said. “But as a team, it depends on where you set your sights. As Mercedes, they want to get back to the top. And if you want to get back to the top, you have to make sure you have the best drivers… so it’s only natural that conversations with people like Verstappen continue.”
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