Wolff answers poignant question: Does Russell miss out on multi-year deal due to Verstappen?

Now that Max Verstappen has confirmed his future with Red Bull Racing, all eyes are on Mercedes. After all, it seems only a matter of time before George Russell and Kimi Antonelli are confirmed for the F1 season of 2026. But for how long are they certain of their future? Team boss Toto Wolff answers that question in a conversation with, among others, GPblog.

The rumors of a possible switch from Verstappen to Mercedes continued for months, but with that option off the table, the focus automatically shifts to Russell. According to Wolff, however, internally there was never any doubt about his driver.

"Well, George has always had good cards because he delivered since 2018. There wasn't a season, he wasn't there," Wolff states. "Nothing changed in our thinking for next year. Just because you don't talk outside doesn't mean that things aren't progressing as they should internally."

Wolff: 'Contract duration not yet determined'

Contract negotiations for Russell's future are still ongoing, and Wolff does not rule out the possibility of opting for flexibility. After 2026, Verstappen could still decide to leave Red Bull Racing, should things not go as well as hoped at Red Bull. "And when it comes to [his] contract, let's see. We will come to the table and we'll move forward."

"But definitely his standing in the team, he's shown it today again. There's no reason to drag out George's contract," the Mercedes boss concluded.

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