Russell Reportedly Walks Away from Mercedes F1 Offer Due to Verstappen

Newsweek

4 days ago

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
George Russell's Mercedes contract expires at the end of 2025, and a contract extension has yet to be signed. However, according to a report by FUno analisi tecnica, Russell was offered a 1+1 year contract extension until the end of 2026, which he turned down. The report also confirmed that talks between Max Verstappen and Mercedes have reached an advanced stage.
Just ahead of last week's Austrian Grand Prix, Russell opened up on the status of his contract, highlighting that detailed discussions have not taken place with team principal Toto Wolff, who has been talking to Verstappen.
Russell admitted that he was unbothered by the outcome, given that he had proven his racing prowess and saw no reason why he would not be present on the F1 grid next year. While Wolff acknowledged Russell's contributions, he made it clear that attempts were being made to bring in four-time world champion Verstappen, but it was unlikely that it would happen next year.
George Russell of United Kingdom and Mercedes during the F1 Grand Prix of Austria at Red Bull Ring on June 29, 2025 in Spielberg, Austria.
George Russell of United Kingdom and Mercedes during the F1 Grand Prix of Austria at Red Bull Ring on June 29, 2025 in Spielberg, Austria.
Guenther Iby/SEPA.Media/Getty Images
Despite Verstappen's Red Bull contract expiring at the end of 2028, Wolff has been trying hard to bring the Dutchman to the Mercedes camp, especially since 2026 marks the dawn of a new era of regulations with new cars. The Mercedes boss probably intends to capitalize on the big reset next year to replicate the success his team witnessed with Lewis Hamilton in the hybrid era that began in 2014.
Verstappen's close Red Bull aide and the team's senior advisor, Helmut Marko, admitted that Verstappen will remain with the team as long as he is handed a car that can win races. However, Red Bull will field its own power units in 2026 in collaboration with Ford under the Red Bull Powertrains banner, a first for the energy drink brand. Mercedes, on the other hand, has a record of developing some of the most powerful F1 engines in the past.
Wolff confirmed after the race in Spielberg that there is very little chance of Verstappen being in a Mercedes F1 car next year, thus confirming that Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli will form the 2026 driver lineup. However, the report by the Italian news agency has shed light on Russell's rejection of Mercedes' contract, which was to last until the end of 2026. The report stated:
"Russell had been offered a two-year contract (1+1) to ensure that the seat would be available for Verstappen from 2027. This is also why the renewal has stalled.
"George wanted more security that apparently can't be there. Furthermore, in the past few weeks, part of the Dutchman's entourage has made several contacts with the German team. It seems that the negotiation is serious and advanced."
Related: Toto Wolff Gives Date for George Russell, Max Verstappen Contract Decision