P1racenews AI automatic summary:
George Russell appears to let slip that he will still be a Mercedes driver in F1 2026.
George Russell has hinted that he will likely continue as a Mercedes F1 driver next year, despite not having a contract for the 2026 season yet. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has indicated that a new deal for Russell is on the horizon, dispelling rumors of pursuing Max Verstappen. Although speculation persists, Russell’s recent comments allude to his potential stay at Mercedes for a fifth year. Wolff and Russell are reportedly in alignment over the contract negotiations, with an expectation to finalize the deal before the summer break. Russell’s future with Mercedes seems promising, and discussions are set to progress in the coming weeks and months.
