Speculation increases regarding Russell, Hamilton, and the 2026 market.

      "I find the situation regarding Russell to be somewhat unexpected."

      17 September 2025 - 11:16

      Concerns are rising within the paddock regarding Mercedes’ perceived indecisiveness about its 2026 driver lineup, which could potentially lead to shifts in the driver market. Veteran Swiss journalist Roger Benoit expressed his astonishment in Blick at team principal Toto Wolff not yet finalizing George Russell’s contract extension. "Why the hesitation with Russell?" Benoit questioned, while also mentioning that Wolff’s young protégé, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, has struggled in his first year. "Is the pressure on the rookie actually exceeding expectations?" he noted. "A swap with (Carlos) Sainz at the Mercedes partner Williams could be a viable option. Or will he ultimately be transferred to the new engine customer, Alpine?"

      Ralf Schumacher has heard similar speculation but stated to Formel1.de that options outside of Wolff’s current roster are limited. "There’s no one currently available that you can say, 'We absolutely need to have that one.'" Ralf remarked. "Most of the leading drivers are signed on. Additionally, Toto Wolff doesn’t hold Valtteri Bottas in high regard, for example. If he did, he would have retained him.

      "So yes, this creates challenges. I find the George Russell issue somewhat surprising," Schumacher continued. "There may be a twist or an explanation for the prolonged indecision. Mercedes should be eager to retain him now, as there aren’t alternatives. They will likely have to wait another year to see how things unfold.

      "That said, I believe Sainz is always a possibility for Mercedes. There seem to be some clauses in his contract. If I were in Mercedes’ position, I would call him immediately."

      Another consideration is the uncertainty surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s future. The seven-time world champion, who will be 41 in 2026, has had a tough season at Ferrari. "I mentioned before the beginning of this year that it wouldn’t be easy for him at Ferrari," Ralf told T-Online. "However, I didn’t foresee him struggling for such an extended period.

      "For him to spin twice at Zandvoort, crash into the barriers, and then receive a penalty for entering the pitlane too quickly—given his experience, that shouldn’t be happening. As a team principal, I would have less tolerance for those mistakes.

      "I really hope this is merely a momentary lapse in focus. However, if these incidents are occurring because he is already pushing the car to its limits, that would not be a positive indication."

      Hamilton himself described his performance as "useless" before the summer break. "Despite all his usual dramatics, I sense that Lewis is profoundly affected by the situation," Ralf said. "However, when a driver publicly expresses such despair, it isn’t particularly motivating for the team. It’s no coincidence that Fred Vasseur urged him to take a more composed approach to the situation.

      "From his statements, one gets the impression that he might actually consider retiring if things continue in this manner."