P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Toto Wolff drops clear George Russell Mercedes F1 contract hint after delays
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has stated that a new contract for George Russell is close to being finalized, despite ongoing speculations about his future in Formula 1 for the 2026 season.
George Russell, who has yet to secure a confirmed seat for next year, has delivered impressive performances in 2025, making him a sought-after driver in the paddock.
While there were talks of Mercedes pursuing Max Verstappen, it appears that a deal with Russell is on the horizon, with both parties expected to reach an agreement soon.
Russell emphasized the importance of getting the contract right, highlighting the significance of fair and mutually beneficial terms for both sides.
Meanwhile, Kimi Antonelli is likely to continue as Russell’s teammate in 2026, following a challenging debut season that saw moments of struggle and promise.
