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‘Toto could have been tighter’ – George Russell on terms of new Mercedes F1 deal
George Russell emphasized that his new contract with Mercedes F1 was based on performance rather than money. The multi-year deal, reportedly valued at £30 million per year, makes him one of the highest-paid drivers alongside Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. Russell stated that winning the championship is his priority over financial gain. He expressed gratitude for the support and recognition from Mercedes, indicating his determination to focus on performance and winning races. Meanwhile, rookie teammate Kimi Antonelli, who initially had doubts about his F1 future, expressed relief and happiness over securing his spot for the upcoming season. Antonelli, at 19, acknowledged the team’s backing and his own perseverance during challenging periods, highlighting the importance of continuous support and confirmation in the competitive world of Formula 1.






