George Russell has said he’s keeping his eyes on the track, shrugging off speculation about his future with Mercedes as they pursue Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.
Despite his stellar performance this year, Russell’s seat could be at risk, but the British driver remains unfazed, emphasizing his commitment to delivering results.
Mercedes have long admired Verstappen, a four-time world champion, and team principal Toto Wolff has not hidden their interest in the Dutch driver. With both Russell and his teammate, rookie Kimi Antonelli, out of contract at the end of 2025, rumors suggest Russell is the more likely candidate to make way if Mercedes secure Verstappen.
Posts on X have fueled the debate, with some fans noting Russell’s frustration at not being Wolff’s top choice, while others report Mercedes are close to offering him a new three-year deal with an optional extra year.
Russell, who has delivered his best season yet with five podiums, including a win in Canada, trails Verstappen by just 18 points in the drivers’ championship.
Speaking to the media, he said he’s developed a “thick skin” to handle the uncertainty. “I don’t read much news or listen to rumors,” Russell said. “I focus on the facts and on the driving. If you perform, everything sorts itself out.”
He added that he’s confident in his position, stating, “The likelihood I’m not at Mercedes next year, I think, is exceptionally low.”
Russell also expressed loyalty to the team, saying, “I want to continue with Mercedes into the future. Toto has never let me down.”
Mercedes’ pursuit of Verstappen comes as Red Bull face challenges, with their dominance fading and uncertainties surrounding their 2026 engine program.
Verstappen’s contract, which runs until 2028, reportedly includes performance-based exit clauses, potentially allowing him to leave if he falls below fourth in the standings by the summer break. Currently third, Verstappen holds an 18-point lead over Russell, making the upcoming races critical.
As the Formula 1 circus heads to the Belgian Grand Prix, set for 44 laps around the iconic 7.004-kilometer Spa-Francorchamps circuit on July 27, Russell’s focus remains clear: drive fast, let the results speak, and secure his future with Mercedes.
Fans will be watching closely to see if his performance can silence the speculation and keep him in the Silver Arrows for 2026.
