Mercedes pair relieved as Verstappen speculation subsides.

      "The key question was who my teammate would be."

      George Russell and Kimi Antonelli returned to the Formula 1 paddock at Zandvoort this week noticeably more at ease, both aware that Max Verstappen will not be joining Mercedes in 2026. The uncertainty surrounding Verstappen's contract exit clauses had placed significant pressure on the young Italian rookie, but for now, the 19-year-old feels a sense of relief.

      "It would be great if my contract renewal were announced at Monza," Antonelli told Sky Italia. "But I don’t really know when or if that will happen there. I'm aware of the team's stance and their aspirations for the future."

      While many speculated that Russell would step aside for Verstappen, the Brit acknowledged that Antonelli was actually facing more scrutiny. "No, not at all," Russell responded when asked if he was concerned. "The main question was regarding my teammate."

      Regarding the delay in signing his own contract, Russell minimized the issue. "We naturally took the summer to relax a bit, but the situation is evolving positively. The world doesn’t just revolve around a new contract."

      The 28-year-old also clarified that he’s not going anywhere. "We’re looking forward to next year, focusing on sponsorship events. Sometimes things take longer than you anticipate. As I mentioned, things are progressing in the right direction."

      Reports indicate that the delay is due to Russell wanting a two-year contract while team principal Toto Wolff prefers a one-year deal, keeping the door open for Verstappen in 2027. However, Russell denied any tension. "No, not at all," he said when questioned about a disagreement with Wolff. "Both short and long-term contracts have their advantages and disadvantages. This season has shown that performance matters most. What’s in your contract is ultimately just a figure."

      He even indicated that he might be willing to accept a one-year extension. "I’m carefully considering my future. The truth is, I want to be world champion, ideally with Mercedes. I’m 28, I still feel youthful, but at some point, you need to be sure everything is progressing positively. As I mentioned, I hope that happens with Mercedes. So, whether it’s for one year or several, that’s what we’re discussing now."

      Russell also lightheartedly acknowledged reigniting the Verstappen-to-Mercedes speculation earlier this year, noting the mutual interest between Wolff and Verstappen. "I didn’t think it was a secret," he chuckled. "Maybe it was an open secret, but I didn’t realize it was not publicly known."

      Antonelli, on the other hand, revealed that the pressure affected him deeply, even bringing him to tears before the media during the break. At one point, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko even suggested that Mercedes should have first placed him in a smaller team.

      "It’s not always easy to start with a top team immediately," Antonelli acknowledged. "I’ve experienced some tough moments, but the team has always supported me. I know I haven’t maximized my potential this year. At the same time, it’s important to focus on the next season. If I had driven for a junior team, the pressure might not have been as intense. Still, I’m glad to have started at Mercedes because I’m learning a great deal here."

      He admitted that the break was crucial. "It really helped me to rest for a few weeks. I won’t lie—I was quite fatigued during the last few race weekends."