As speculation around his future intensifies, George Russell has reiterated that no updates have been made regarding a new contract with Mercedes ahead of the 2025 F1 British GP. The Briton, however, insists that his primary focus lies squarely on his performance at this weekend’s race in Silverstone, not on the negotiations off-track.
“No messing around there. No updates since the last time we spoke,” Russell confirmed. “Honestly, as I have said for the majority of this season, I am just focused on the driving. Of course, this weekend is a huge weekend for us. For me, my home race is my favourite race of the year, and that is where I want to give all my focus and attention to try and win this Grand Prix.”
Reflecting on his strong 2023 Silverstone performance, he added, “We were on pole here last year. We were leading the first third of the race. Temperatures look slightly more favourable for us this weekend. Not as favourable as they were 12 months ago, but much more compared to Austria last week. And we know clearly that is where we struggled. So, yes, just excited for that.”
No doubts over Mercedes loyalty
When pressed on whether the ongoing delay could raise questions about Mercedes’ commitment to him, Russell remained unfazed, pointing to strong internal communication and mutual understanding.
“There is a lot of conversations behind the scenes that are not public. And I know where their loyalty lies. It does not need to be public. It does not need to be broadcast to everybody,” he stated.
He continued, “We have obviously spoken a little bit more over the last week because there are numerous news articles and whatnot out there. But in all honesty, it does not really change anything my side because, as I have said before, I feel I am performing better than ever. And it is as simple as that really. Performance speaks for everything.”
Clear commitment to Mercedes amid outside interest
Despite growing media chatter, Russell revealed he has not entertained talks with other teams. “No,” he said directly when asked if he was speaking to other teams.
He elaborated further when questioned on whether it would be wise to consider alternative options. “Every team has two seats available, and it is normal that every team is considering what the future holds. And I do not take that personally because I made it clear from the beginning. I am happy to be team-mates with anybody.”
Russell reaffirmed his trust in Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, saying, “The fact is, Toto has never let me down. He has always given me his word, but he has also got to do what is right for his team, which includes me. But it also includes the thousands of people who work for Mercedes. For me, it is nothing to worry about because I do not think I will be going anywhere.”
Russell unbothered by rumours and headlines
Despite the swirling speculation, Russell has adopted a calm, composed approach, maintaining focus on his driving rather than the media noise.
“I mean, that is for you to judge,” he replied when asked if the rumours were unfair. “For me, I feel quite thick-skinned, and I do not really read much news or listen to rumours. I just focus on the facts, and I focus on the driving.”
“I said it at the beginning of this year, you can have a contract, but if you do not perform, you are out. And if you do perform, everything sorts itself out. So, yes, from my side, not really much more to add really and just focus on the driving as I have been for this whole year.”
Mercedes still the best chance for title
Although the 2026 season will bring new technical regulations, including changes to engine architecture and sustainable fuel, Russell believes continuity with Mercedes offers the best route to success.
“I think so,” he said when asked if Mercedes provides the best opportunity to win a Drivers’ Championship. “I think going into next year, there are so many unknowns. So many unknowns with the car, so many unknowns with the engine, with the fuel.”
“And I think for us, from both sides, our best opportunity of winning is to continue as we are. We are performing, I feel, at the racetrack at a very high level. I feel I am performing at a high level. I have been working with the team now. Will be going into my fifth year next year.”
Russell added, “When you are going into such a fresh start, I think consistency gives you your best shot.”
Timeline remains open – but expect news soon
Despite widespread assumptions that a deal would be announced by now, Russell explained there is no strict deadline in place. However, he hinted that clarity could arrive in the near future.
“There is not really any deadline in place, to be honest,” he said. “Obviously, naturally, you try and have stuff done before the summer break. From my side, Mercedes manage me as well, so it is not really a deadline in my hands as such.”
He added, “I am not even thinking about it right now. Obviously, there are a lot of questions about it. But the more we speak, the less we speak about it, nothing really changes. It will happen when the time is right. I expect probably in the next couple of weeks, probably something to happen. But, yes, we will need to wait and see.”
Confident in alternatives – but loyalty comes first
When asked about contingency plans in the unlikely event that a Mercedes deal does not materialise, Russell exuded confidence – while once again pledging his loyalty to the Brackley-based squad.
“Yes. Pretty confident, to be honest. Because I think what I have proven so far is plenty enough and not really much more to say,” he remarked.
“Any teams who did reach out in the past, I said, look, I am loyal to Mercedes. That is where my future lies. Ultimately, Mercedes are my managers, so it has to be dealt through Mercedes in the first place. But there has not been a lack of interest, let us say.”
“I have been focused on my side. I am loyal to Mercedes. At the end of the day, everything will work itself out. And the likelihood I am not at Mercedes next year, I think is exceptionally low.”
Head down, eyes forward
Despite a growing number of headlines and questions, George Russell continues to tune out the noise and focus on delivering strong performances. While a new contract with Mercedes remains pending, his faith in the team appears unshaken.
With Silverstone providing both a symbolic and strategic opportunity, Russell heads into his home GP with momentum, optimism, and the quiet confidence that results – not rumours – will ultimately define his future.
