P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell has admitted that his team’s flirtation with the idea of signing Max Verstappen for 2026 has been difficult to deal with – perhaps more difficult that he had originally let on
Mercedes Formula 1 driver George Russell has found dealing with the team’s consideration of signing Max Verstappen for 2026 to be challenging, more so than initially indicated. Verstappen’s recent surge in the standings has prevented Russell from triggering a break clause in his Red Bull contract, ensuring the Dutch driver’s continued presence at Red Bull for 2026. This confirmation has led Mercedes to likely stick with Russell and Kimi Antonelli for the upcoming seasons. Despite Russell’s calm public demeanor regarding the situation earlier, recent developments at the Hungarian Grand Prix unveiled a more complex and potentially awkward dynamic within the Mercedes F1 structure. Russell acknowledged the recent challenges in managing his F1 career and emphasized the need for aligning interests between himself and the team moving forward.
