George Russell says the prospect of him not racing for Mercedes in 2026 is “exceptionally low,” amid studies in Italy that Max Verstappen is open to a transfer from Crimson Bull.
Verstappen has been linked with Mercedes on numerous events prior to now and ultimately weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix, Russell acknowledged discussions are happening between the 2 events. This week, Sky Italy reported concrete talks had taken place as Verstappen was eager on the swap in 2026, however Russell says he has not spoken to different groups as he’s assured he’s staying the place he’s.
“There’s loads of conversations behind the scenes that aren’t public, and I do know the place their loyalty lies,” Russell stated. “And it does not should be public. It does not should be broadcasted to all people.
“We’ve clearly spoken a little bit bit extra during the last week as a result of there’s quite a few information articles and whatnot on the market. However in all honesty, it does not actually change something my facet as a result of, as I’ve stated earlier than, I really feel I am performing higher than ever, and it is so simple as that actually. Efficiency speaks for the whole lot.
“I’m fairly assured [of having a good seat somewhere], to be sincere. As a result of I believe what I’ve confirmed thus far has been lots sufficient. And … any groups who did attain out prior to now, I stated, ‘Look, I’m loyal to Mercedes, that is the place my future lies.’ And finally, Mercedes are my supervisor, so it needs to be dealt by means of Mercedes within the first place.
“There hasn’t been an absence of curiosity, for instance. However I have been centered on my facet; I’m loyal to Mercedes. So on the finish of the day, the whole lot will work itself out and the probability I am not at Mercedes subsequent 12 months, I believe, is exceptionally low.”
Russell says he can’t set any deadlines about when he needs affirmation of his future to be finalized, though he want to know by the August mid-season break.
“Clearly, naturally, you attempt to have stuff completed earlier than the summer season break,” he stated. “From my facet, Mercedes handle me as properly. So it is probably not a deadline in my fingers as such.
“I am not even excited about it proper now. Clearly, there’s loads of questions on it. However the extra we communicate – or the much less we communicate – about it, nothing actually adjustments. It’s going to occur when the time is true. I count on in all probability within the subsequent couple of weeks, in all probability one thing to occur. However we’ll want to attend and see.”
