George Russell says the possibility of him not racing for Mercedes in 2026 is “exceptionally low,” amid stories in Italy that Max Verstappen is open to a transfer from Pink Bull.
Verstappen has been linked with Mercedes on quite a lot of events previously and finally weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix, Russell said discussions are happening between the 2 events. This week, Sky Italy reported concrete talks had taken place as Verstappen was eager on the swap in 2026, however Russell says he has not spoken to different groups as he’s assured he’s staying the place he’s.
“There’s lots of conversations behind the scenes that aren’t public, and I do know the place their loyalty lies,” Russell stated. “And it would not must be public. It would not must be broadcasted to all people.
“We’ve clearly spoken a little bit bit extra during the last week as a result of there’s quite a few information articles and whatnot on the market. However in all honesty, it would not actually change something my facet as a result of, as I’ve stated earlier than, I really feel I am performing higher than ever, and it is so simple as that actually. Efficiency speaks for the whole lot.
“I’m fairly assured [of having a good seat somewhere], to be sincere. As a result of I feel what I’ve confirmed to date has been lots sufficient. And … any groups who did attain out previously, I stated, ‘Look, I’m loyal to Mercedes, that is the place my future lies.’ And finally, Mercedes are my supervisor, so it must be dealt by means of Mercedes within the first place.
“There hasn’t been an absence of curiosity, as an instance. However I have been targeted on my facet; I’m loyal to Mercedes. So on the finish of the day, the whole lot will work itself out and the probability I am not at Mercedes subsequent yr, I feel, is exceptionally low.”
Russell says he can’t set any deadlines about when he desires affirmation of his future to be finalized, though he wish to know by the August mid-season break.
“Clearly, naturally, you attempt to have stuff accomplished earlier than the summer season break,” he stated. “From my facet, Mercedes handle me as nicely. So it is not likely a deadline in my arms as such.
“I am not even interested by it proper now. Clearly, there’s lots of questions on it. However the extra we converse – or the much less we converse – about it, nothing actually modifications. It will occur when the time is correct. I anticipate in all probability within the subsequent couple of weeks, in all probability one thing to occur. However we’ll want to attend and see.”
