P1racenews AI automatic summary:
George Russell-Mercedes F1 contract standoff branded a “pointless battle”
George Russell is still waiting for a new Mercedes F1 deal as there is no agreement between the two parties.
Mercedes has not yet announced their 2026 F1 driver lineup, leaving seats to fill for Mercedes, Alpine, and the two Red Bull teams.
It has been hinted that the second Alpine seat will be between Franco Colapinto and Isack Hadjar.
Red Bull is expected to promote Isack Hadjar to partner Max Verstappen and has options of Yuki Tsunoda or Liam Lawson for Racing Bulls next year.
Despite delays, Toto Wolff confirmed that George Russell will remain with Kimi Antonelli for next year in Mercedes.
Mercedes explored the possibility of signing Verstappen but he confirmed he will stay with Red Bull in 2026.
1997 F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve called the contract talks between Mercedes and Russell a “pointless battle” with limited alternatives for both parties.
