Russell fuels speculation about Verstappen move to Mercedes at Austrian GP
George Russell Hints at Max Verstappen Pursuit Amid Mercedes Contract Speculation
The Formula One rumor mill gained momentum this weekend at the Austrian Grand Prix as George Russell hinted that his contract discussions with Mercedes might be delayed by the team's pursuit of reigning world champion Max Verstappen. While the Dutchman remains under contract with Red Bull until 2028, escape clauses within his deal have kept rival teams’ hopes alive.
Russell, the 27-year-old Brit fresh off a victory in Canada, is in the final year of his current contract. Speaking to Sky Sports, he acknowledged that Mercedes, an eight-time Constructors' Champion between 2014 and 2021, is focused on reclaiming its spot at the top of the Formula One hierarchy.
"If you're going to be back on top, you need to make sure you've got the best drivers, the best engineers, the best pit crew, and that's what Mercedes are chasing," Russell said. "So, it's only normal that conversations with the likes of Verstappen are ongoing."
Russell Confident About His Standing
However, he exuded confidence about his own standing within the team, adding:
"From my side, if I'm performing as I'm doing, what have I got to be concerned about? There are two seats in every Formula One team."
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has not been shy about his admiration for Verstappen. Last year, the Austrian executive openly expressed interest in the Dutch driver while seeking a replacement for seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. Ultimately, the team entrusted the seat to 18-year-old rookie Kimi Antonelli, whose breakout performances this season have captured the imagination of fans and set a slew of records.
Potential Verstappen-Russell Pairing Raises Questions
The possibility of pairing rivals Verstappen and Russell within the same garage raises questions about team harmony. The two drivers have had several high-profile confrontations both on and off the track over the last year, something Mercedes will need to assess before making any decisions.
Despite the speculation surrounding Verstappen, Russell remains assured of his role in Mercedes' plans. In an interview with reporters, he revealed that Wolff had expressed complete satisfaction with his performance:
"I think there's only one driver that you can debate in terms of performance -- these are his words, these are not my words -- so that's why I have no concern about the future," Russell said. "But there's two seats at every team, and I guess he needs to think who are those two drivers going to be for those two seats, and I guess that's what the delay is."
Verstappen’s Reserved Response
Asked about his future with Red Bull during the FIA press conference, Verstappen remained characteristically reserved:
"Do you want me to repeat what I said last year? … It’s not really on my mind. Just driving well, trying to push the performance, and then we focus on next year," he replied.
High Stakes for Mercedes’ Future
For now, the grid holds its collective breath to see if Mercedes’ ambitions will lead to a blockbuster signing—or if Russell’s confidence will be rewarded with a renewed partnership next season. The only certainty is that the stakes have never been higher for a team intent on reclaiming dominance in Formula One.
Up Next
