Russell undeterred by Mercedes' Verstappen talks, plans to stay with the team

Russell's contract with Mercedes expires at the end of this season, and there is much speculation about his future plans. Earlier this month, there were suggestions that the Brit intended to leave the team, but according to him, that is not the case.

However, the Brit may not have anything to worry about. GPblog previously reported that Verstappen does not plan to make use of a possible exit clause and that the Dutchman is not in talks with the Mercedes team.

"My intention and goal is to stay with Mercedes," Russell told the media in Canada. "I believe that's Toto's intention as well. There's really no reason for us to deviate from that."

It is a well-known fact that Toto Wolff would very much like to have the Dutchman on his team, and Russell is not unaware of this situation.

"It's understandable that people have always had someone like Max on their radar. Because why wouldn't they?" he stated. "He's one of the best drivers ever, and I understand that."

Yet, that is no reason to worry, the Brit emphasises: "But then it's up to you to prove your worth. I think I have done so over the course of seven years in Formula 1, throughout my entire career. So I'm not worried."