George Russell: Mercedes contract stalemate continues

Russell working towards “fair” renewal

It is rare that a driver performing at George Russell’s level finds themselves in such an uncomfortable contractual situation.

The #63 car has been the epitome of consistency in 2025, only missing out on points once at the Monaco GP – a result caused by an engine failure in qualifying.

For the first half of the year, it was Max Verstappen who caused the contract delays between Russell and Mercedes. Toto Wolff’s discussions with Verstappen were the focus prior to the summer break. Though these talks ultimately failed, the fact they spoke volumes about Wolff’s priorities. For months, the British driver could only watch on from the sidelines.

With the final rounds of the year approaching, the Dutchman’s place at Red Bull for 2026 is confirmed. Despite this obstacle being eliminated, Russell is yet to reach satisfactory terms with Mercedes, even after months of negotiations.

According to Racingnews365, the 5-time race winner has rejected several contract offers from the German constructor. As mentioned previously on LWOS, contract duration is seen as a key issue. The 27-year-old is understood to be pushing for a longer contract to protect his position.

Considering that Verstappen could be available in 2026, it is logical for Russell to pursue a contract that gives him security.

With that said, he made clear to the media last Thursday that nothing has been agreed with Mercedes:

“No updates to give you… I think for any driver, when you get to a certain point in your career, things have to be done right.

“I think every time you renew a contract, its the most important one of your life, and it has to be done with good care.

“And there’s nothing to worry about, it’ll get done when it gets done. It’s just about something that is fair, mutually beneficial – I think that’s obviously what we all chase.

“It’s obviously different for certain drivers, who may have a bit more power, may have a bit less power. But yeah as I said, no more updates, nothing to report.”

Mercedes face a decision

To some extent, talks between Russell and Mercedes appear to have reached a stalemate. Both parties, for different reasons, are unwilling to budge from their demands and preferences.

For Toto Wolff (who still believes in Kimi Antonelli’s potential) offering Russell a multi-year deal would effectively prevent him from making a move to sign Max Verstappen. This is a scenario the 51-year-old wants to avoid – his aspirations of eventually signing the 4-time Champion still appear present.

Russell, meanwhile, won’t be oblivious to the Dutchman’s pull int he market. The 27-year-old (understandably given his output) wants to cement his place at the Mercedes project.

In theory, neither side in these negotiations has any alternatives. Mercedes don’t have any alternatives in the market they can sign. For Russell, meanwhile, there are no available slots at top teams for 2026.

Because of this, it could still take some time for a final deal to be signed between these parties.