Russell: Toto Wolff has never betrayed me

      Tom Clarkson, the FIA press conference host at Silverstone, jokingly asked George Russell if he had received a new contract, but the Mercedes driver replied that such jokes are inappropriate.

      George Russell: "There’s no joking matter here. No news since our last discussion on this topic, and throughout the season I’ve been reiterating that I’m simply focused on racing, especially now, as we have a very important weekend ahead—my home race.

      It's my favorite race of the year, and I try to stay fully focused because we want to contend for the victory. Last year, I started from pole position and led for the first third of the race; temperatures this weekend are somewhat more favorable for Mercedes, though not as much as 12 months ago. Overall, I’m looking forward to the Grand Prix."

      In response to a direct question about whether he feels that Mercedes no longer shows the same loyalty toward him, George answered: "There are lots of talks, but they are behind closed doors and private. I know everything about our team’s loyalty, but there’s no need to announce it publicly or share it with everyone around.

      Of course, last week we discussed this more because there were lots of news and other nonsense, but honestly, nothing has changed for me. I’ve already said that, I believe, I am currently driving better than ever before, so it’s all simple for me. The results speak for themselves.

      I think it’s enough that I already proved myself—there’s probably not much to add. To the teams that approached me in the past, I said I would remain loyal to Mercedes and that I see my future with this team. After all, Mercedes manages my career, so any negotiations on this matter should go through the team.

      Let’s just say, there’s no shortage of interest in my services, but I remain loyal to Mercedes. It’s about the fact that everything should work out naturally, and the likelihood of me not being with Mercedes next year is quite low… Whether it’s fair or not that I’m still without a contract, that’s not for me to judge. You see, I think I’m pretty thick-skinned; I hardly read the news or respond to rumors. I prefer to focus on the facts and driving…

      Each team has two seats, and it’s quite normal for every team to plan their future. I don’t take this personally and have made it clear from the start that I’m happy to work with any teammate. Of course, there are many rumors and conversations surrounding me. But personally, I see it differently. I want to stay with Mercedes in the future.

      Toto Wolff has never betrayed me; he gave me his word. But at the same time, he must also act in the best interests of the team, which, besides me, includes thousands of employees—all working for Mercedes. As for myself, I have nothing to worry about; I don’t think I’ll need to go anywhere. And I’m not concerned at all about who my teammate will be."