Russell suggests a temporary agreement with Mercedes.
"No dates to provide"
George Russell emphasizes that there is no threat of missing the 2026 grid with Mercedes, although he acknowledges that his new contract has not yet been finalized. The 27-year-old Brit is largely predicted to remain at Brackley, a sentiment echoed by team principal Toto Wolff; however, discussions have been drawn out. Reports indicate that extended negotiations over contract terms have postponed any formal announcement.
"I prefer to focus on the present and the near future, and I understand that if I consistently do everything right each day, I'll reach my long-term goals," Russell stated in an interview with The Straits Times ahead of the Singapore weekend.
When asked by reporters on Thursday, Russell could not confirm any deal. "Surprise. I don’t have any dates to share with you. I mentioned you'd be the first to know when there's news," he said with a smile.
"For any driver, when you reach a certain stage in your career, it’s crucial to handle things properly. Each time you renew a contract, it’s the most significant one of your life, and it needs to be approached carefully. There’s nothing to worry about, and it will be finalized when it’s ready," he added.
Russell also refuted claims that he is a tough negotiator. "I don’t believe so. It’s merely about finding something fair and mutually advantageous. That’s what we all aim for," he commented.
When asked if the negotiation process might extend into next year, Russell replied: "No, I don’t think so. Honestly, it shouldn’t. Things are advancing and progressing. There’s no real risk of that happening. But if it does, it does – but I don’t anticipate that."
Russell also shared that he has begun preparing for the next era of regulations. "Just yesterday, I was in the simulator working with the 2026 car and engine," he said.
Other articles
Verstappen estimates his title chances at 50 percent.
Formula 1 | Max Verstappen's consecutive victories in Monza and Baku have unexpectedly brought him back into contention for the 2025 world championship, with the pressure now (…)
Sainz praises his Dakar performance in his father's Ford.
Formula 1 | Carlos Sainz expressed that driving his renowned father's Ford Dakar Raptor was among the most remarkable experiences of his life. During the summer break of Formula 1 (…)
Alonso to don cooling vest during 'heat hazard' Grand Prix
Formula 1 | The Singapore GP taking place this weekend has been marked as Formula 1's inaugural official 'heat hazard' race, as the FIA seeks to enhance driver safety in (…)
Drugovich departs from his position as a reserve driver for Aston Martin.
Formula 1 | Felipe Drugovich has announced that he will depart from Aston Martin at the conclusion of the year, bringing an end to his three-year tenure as the team's reserve driver. (…)
Concerns about unappealing car designs for 2026 models
Formula 1 | As Formula 1 prepares for its most significant rule change ever, there are increasing concerns about whether the new cars will demonstrate diversity - (…)
The picture for the Red Bull driver lineup is beginning to clarify amidst speculation regarding Dunne.
Formula 1 | The 2026 lineup for the Red Bull team is still undetermined, with new interest arising after Alex Dunne's unexpected exit from McLaren's youth driver program (…)
Russell suggests a temporary agreement with Mercedes.
Formula 1 | George Russell asserts that there is no danger of being left out of the 2026 grid with Mercedes, although he acknowledges that his new contract has yet to be finalized. The 27-year-old (…)