GEORGE RUSSELL TOWARDS CONTRACT RENEWAL
Following the latest news about Max Verstappen staying with Red Bull for the 2026 Formula 1 season, the british driver George Russell seems close to renew his contract with Mercedes until the end of 2027.
The rumours circulating around the paddock up until Thursday of the Belgian GP’s week were almost certain that Russell would have left the German squad after the last race of 2025. Mercedes’ Team Principal Toto Wolff never hid his admiration for Verstappen, in fact, he always showed interest in the Dutchman as a driver.
“You can never discard a Four-time World Champion when thinking about your drivers’ choice.” stated Toto Wolff in the media.
Everything changed during the media day at Spa-Francorchamps. It was understood that Verstappen’s exit clause was valid only under certain circumstances. The Dutch had to be outside of the top 3 in the Drivers’ standings after the Belgian Grand Prix. Therefore, the Red Bull driver is unable to use the clause, since he is sitting 3rd in the standings, 28 points ahead of Russell.
Erik Haren, a journalist close to Max Verstappen, also informed that the Dutch chose to stay at Red Bull for the next season after the race at Spa. He showed enthusiasm in working with Red Bull’s new Team Principal Laurent Mekies as well.
Russell’s payout will be $30 milion until the end of 2027, making him the 4th most paid driver in the Formula 1 grid.
Mercedes has one of the strongest line-ups of the grid
Last reports about the 2026 Formula 1 regulations indicate that Mercedes will have the most superior engine of the grid. Therefore, George Russell should be able to have his first shot at a world championship. His team mate Kimi Antonelli, has stated to be losing confidence with the car lately. Seen the performances of the Italian until the Canadian GP in his debut season, we might witness one of the most dominant shows in Formula 1 in case the Bolognese returns in good form.
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