P1racenews AI automatic summary:
George Russell’s current contract with Mercedes is due to expire at the end of the 2025 season.
Nico Rosberg suggested that the delay in Mercedes offering George Russell a new F1 contract could be related to talks with Max Verstappen. Despite Russell’s strong performance in the 2025 season, he remains without a contract for next year, sparking rumors linking him with Aston Martin. Verstappen has an exit clause that might become active, but he has expressed no desire to leave Red Bull. Mercedes’ interest in Verstappen has been longstanding, but Toto Wolff has distanced the team from pursuing him. Rosberg speculates that discussions with Verstappen might be happening behind the scenes. Wolff stated that Russell’s recent win in Canada will not impact the contract talks, emphasizing a timeline for reaching a new deal. Russell has expressed confidence about being on the grid next year, stating his loyalty to Mercedes and intention to stay with the team.
