George Russell has stated that it is completely logical for Mercedes to consider signing Max Verstappen.
Russell is currently in the final year of his contract with Mercedes. Despite his consistent strong performances, an extension has not yet been announced, fueling speculation about the team`s driver lineup.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff mentioned last month that the team`s previous attempts to recruit Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, were on hold. However, the current uncertainties within Verstappen`s Red Bull team, combined with Russell`s unconfirmed future, keep the topic of Verstappen potentially moving to Mercedes alive.
“Why wouldn`t they be interested in signing Max? It`s completely understandable,” Russell told PA ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend.
“He is currently the best driver in Formula 1 and a four-time world champion. This has nothing to do with my position or Kimi Antonelli`s prospects. Every team has two driver slots, and Verstappen is a highly desirable candidate for one of those spots.”
“My performance on the track is what matters most, and I believe I am currently performing at the highest level among all drivers on the grid.”
Speculation about Verstappen`s future was reignited this week when Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko expressed concern to Sky Germany. Marko suggested that Verstappen might consider leaving Red Bull if the team does not improve the car`s performance following their struggles at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Verstappen has emphasized that his focus is on contributing to improving Red Bull`s car. He also expressed confusion regarding Marko`s public concerns about his future.
George Russell has had a very impressive start to the 2025 season, achieving three podium finishes in the first four races. He is currently only 14 points behind Lando Norris of McLaren in the championship standings. This continues his strong performance from 2024, where he often outperformed his teammate, Lewis Hamilton, who is departing Mercedes.
“I am very content with my current situation. Many drivers have contracts, but ultimately, if you underperform, teams will find ways to terminate those contracts. We will discuss my contract extension when the timing is appropriate,” Russell commented.
“I believe that drivers who are overly worried about contract security or a lack of clarity are often those who lack self-confidence. I have immense self-belief.”
“I have been teammates with a world champion, and arguably the greatest driver of all time, for the past three years in Hamilton. I am confident that I can beat anyone given the right opportunity, and that is my driving force.”
Russell: Some Rumors Are `Reasonably Close` to Reality
Earlier this week, Autosport reported that George Russell was close to signing a two-year contract extension with Mercedes, including an option for an additional year in 2028.
Rachel Brookes from Sky Sports F1 questioned Russell about the accuracy of these rumors, as well as alternative theories suggesting that he has not had any contract discussions with Mercedes and that his strong performance might be unsettling to Verstappen`s camp by potentially weakening their negotiation position.
Russell responded, “Rumors are rarely completely accurate, are they?”
“To be honest, I don`t pay too much attention to rumors. However, some of them are somewhat close to the truth, I suppose. But in reality, we have never seriously discussed contracts before May or June in any season.”
Russell further explained his perspective on why long-term contracts may not be as significant as they seem.
He stated, “I would argue that it`s more unusual how many drivers have these extended, multi-year agreements.”
“However, all contracts contain exit clauses and performance-based clauses. A three-year contract for a driver doesn`t hold much weight if there are clauses allowing either party to terminate it based on performance. It`s not as definitive as it appears.”
“If a team wants to part ways with a driver, even with a contract in place, they will find a way to make it happen.”
“That`s the nature of this sport, and it`s how it should be. We are among the 20 best drivers globally, and it`s a fiercely competitive environment. There`s no room for complacency. The only thing you can truly control is your performance on the track.”
