Russell is "not concerned in the slightest" about securing a Mercedes seat for 2026.

      "I don’t pay attention to the press or what’s being said on social media."

      George Russell stated on Thursday that he is "not worried at all" regarding his upcoming contract discussions. Max Verstappen is increasingly rumored to be considering a move to Mercedes as the new regulations kick in for 2026.

      Although Russell is currently in outstanding form, praised by team principal Toto Wolff, there is a common belief that if Mercedes needs to accommodate Verstappen, Wolff would likely choose to retain his 18-year-old protégé Kimi Antonelli. However, former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone disagrees with that perspective.

      "If Max were to move to Mercedes, it’s likely that the talented Antonelli, who has been performing exceptionally well, would have to leave," he told Blick newspaper this week.

      Russell, who is currently in third place in the 2025 standings, emphasized at Suzuka that he hasn’t been keeping up with the latest speculation. "I don’t follow the press or what’s written on social media, but just this morning someone mentioned that Toto has praised my work," he remarked.

      "It’s nice to hear, but I already know he supports me and believes in my abilities. What truly matters is what occurs within the team, not what’s happening outside of it."

      Both Wolff and Russell have recently indicated that the British driver’s contract discussions will be postponed for the time being. "I am not worried about it at all," Russell stated. "I just have faith in myself. Things can change quickly in Formula 1, but the key factor is always the results, and in that respect, everything is fine.

      "Historically, when it comes to contracts, it usually takes Toto and me no longer than a day. Therefore, I’m not in a hurry and don’t feel any pressure."