P1racenews AI automatic summary:
George Russell says there have been no Mercedes contract talks yet as the focus remains firmly on improving the team’s on-track performance in F1.
George Russell has confirmed that there have been no contract talks with Mercedes yet, as the team is focused on improving their on-track performance in Formula 1.
Russell’s current contract ends this season, raising the possibility of him becoming a free agent if new terms are not agreed upon.
Although Russell’s strong form places him fourth in the Drivers’ Championship, the main threat to his Mercedes seat comes from World Champion Max Verstappen and his future decisions in F1.
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has openly admired Verstappen, leading to speculation about a potential lineup change.
Russell remains confident about his future in F1 and with Mercedes, focusing on car development and narrowing the performance gap to competitors like McLaren.
The ongoing speculation about Verstappen joining Mercedes does not faze Russell, who believes he has proven his worth in F1.
While tensions exist between Russell and Verstappen, a potential future partnership at Mercedes could create on-track fireworks and off-track challenges.
