George Russell says it’s “the only normal” for Mercedes to talk to Max Verstappen, and that these talks are part of the delay in confirming the future of 2026 Formula 1.
Mercedes has not yet confirmed the lineup of F1 drivers for next year. Russell and Kimi Antoneri have finished their contract.
Russell has been one of the star performers of the season so far, earning Mercedes’ first victory at the Canadian Grand Prix since last time Las Vegas.
However, the future of Russell’s Mercedes is still unknown.
Mercedes has been heavily linked to Max Verstappen for the past 12 months.
Totowolf explored the possibility of bringing Verstappen to Mercedes, as if he was looking for a replacement for Lewis Hamilton.
At least, at least Verstappen continues to commit to Red Bull despite rumors.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, Russell insisted that he had nothing to worry about, but dealt with Mercedes’ interest in the four-time world champion.
“From my side, I don’t think there’s anything to worry about. As a team, I think it depends on where you put your aspirations,” Russell said. “We are the second best right now, maybe the third best.
“As Mercedes, they want to go back to the top. If you’re back to the top, you need to make sure you have the best drivers, the best engineers, the best pit crew. That’s what Mercedes is chasing.
“So it’s normal for a conversation like Verstappen to be ongoing. But from my side, if you’re playing the way I’m doing, what do I need to worry about? Every F1 team has two seats.”
Russell said “I have no concerns” about his future for Formula 1.
In addition to Verstappen, Russell has consistently performed at a high level throughout the season.
As Hamilton left the team for Ferrari, Russell stepped into the role of team leader.
Russell suggested that Wolf is still weighing what the Mercedes lineup should be for next year.
“Toto revealed to me that I think how I’m playing this year is just as good as anyone,” Russell added.
“I think there’s only one driver I can discuss in terms of performance. These are his words, these are not my words, so I’m not worried about the future.
“But every team has two seats and I think he needs to think about it. These two drivers are going to go to these two seats, I think that’s a delay.
“It’s true, I want to be in the seat that gives me the best chance to win. In the end, I’m not as happy as winning at Mercedes.
“But now there’s only one thing I’m focusing on. It’s driving fast. If you’re driving right away, there’s nothing to worry about. And if it’s not, that’s when people start talking.”