Crystal clear announcement from Russell: No negotiations with other teams

(Motorsport-Total.com) - While the rumor mill surrounding Max Verstappen and a possible move to Mercedes continues to heat up, George Russell remains decidedly calm ahead of his home race at Silverstone.

The Briton, who secured his long-awaited starting place at Mercedes in 2022, still has no contract extension beyond 2024. But while speculation about a possible signing of Verstappen by Mercedes is gaining momentum, Russell is placing his trust in continuity - and in the word of team boss Toto Wolff .

"There's no news since the last time we spoke," Russell said Thursday at Silverstone. "As I've said all season: I'm just focused on driving."

Russell is aware that his own contract situation is increasingly becoming a topic of media attention, but he's taking it in stride. "Of course, we've talked a bit more in the last week because there have been a lot of articles and so on," he admits. "But honestly, that doesn't change anything for me. I feel like I'm driving better right now than ever before. And that's what counts in the end. Performance speaks for itself."

"Toto has never disappointed me"

Amid ongoing speculation that Mercedes might be considering Max Verstappen, Russell was asked directly whether the situation bothered him – perhaps because it might cast doubt on his employer's loyalty to him. "I know where their loyalty lies," he replied clearly. "It doesn't have to be public. Not everyone needs to know."

Still, a Plan B wouldn't hurt, in case he ends up on the street. But he says he hasn't had any discussions with other teams: "No," he dismisses. "I'm loyal to Mercedes. And in the end, everything will work out. I think the probability that I won't be with Mercedes next year is extremely low."

There's another factor that's of great value to the Briton: Motorsport Director Toto Wolff. "Toto has never disappointed me," Russell emphasizes. "He's always kept his word. But he also has to do the right thing for his team—that includes me, but also the thousands of Mercedes employees."

Performance will always pay off

The Englishman is relaxed about his team's discussions with other drivers. "I don't take it personally, because I've made it clear from the beginning: I'm ready to ride with any teammate," says Russell.

And in the end, the Mercedes driver knows, performance will always prevail in Formula 1. "You can have a contract, but if you don't perform, you're out. And if you perform, everything will take care of itself." For him, that means: Even if things don't continue with the Silver Arrows, he's not worried.

"I think what I've shown so far is completely sufficient—I don't need to say much more," he clarifies. "I've told teams that have shown interest in the past: Look, I'm loyal to Mercedes. That's where my future lies."

"Ultimately, Mercedes is also my management, so everything has to go through Mercedes anyway. But let's just say there was no lack of interest."

Remaining as the best option - for both sides

But his first option remains Mercedes – also in terms of the racing. Because in 2026, the tables will be turned, and no one knows who will have the best car. But Russell believes Mercedes should have a good chance of winning. "The best chance for both sides to win is if we continue as we have been."

When asked about possible deadlines for a decision, he played it down. "Actually, there isn't really a deadline. Of course, they're trying to get it sorted out before the summer break. But Mercedes also manages me, so it's out of my hands. I expect something in the next few weeks. But we'll see."