Russell could obtain a new contract at his home Grand Prix.
Toto Wolff may be nearing the conclusion of the growing speculation regarding Mercedes’ Formula 1 driver lineup for 2026.
It appears that the Austrian has kept the possibility of Max Verstappen open by postponing the final contract discussions with the currently impressive George Russell.
However, it is also evident that rumors about Verstappen potentially leaving Red Bull have considerably decreased in recent weeks. This is encouraging news for Russell, who recently secured a win from pole position in Montreal.
"Many believe a new contract could be revealed at Silverstone," claims Auto Motor und Sport’s Michael Schmidt.
Nonetheless, this may simply shift the burden of uncertainty from Russell to rookie Kimi Antonelli. The Osterreich newspaper concurs that if Russell remains with the team in 2026, "the implications for Antonelli’s future remain uncertain."
In fact, it’s possible for Mercedes to pair Verstappen with Russell, as they have demonstrated signs of increasing mutual respect despite their intense historical rivalries. An unnamed insider from Red Bull believes a Verstappen-Antonelli combination is improbable. "If Wolff brings in Verstappen, he’ll be changing two drivers. Verstappen would hinder Antonelli's progress."
Robert Doornbos, a close associate of Verstappen, cautions against those who assume the four-time world champion will definitely stay at Red Bull. "There’s still activity happening behind the scenes," he stated to Ziggo Sport. "George Russell is winning races. Why not offer that guy a contract then? I strongly suspect something will occur this year, and Russell may have to wait a long time for a contract. Only if Wolff cannot secure Max will he turn to George."
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