P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has insisted that George Russell is certain to sign a contract extension to remain with the team in F1 beyond the current campaign.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff is confident that George Russell will sign a contract extension to continue racing for the team in Formula 1 beyond this season. Russell and fellow teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli have been awaiting confirmation about their seats for the 2026 season. Speculation arose when Russell mentioned Mercedes discussing with Max Verstappen, but Wolff clarified that he plans to keep Russell and Antonelli in the team next year. Verstappen recently revealed he will stay with Red Bull, further solidifying Russell’s position at Mercedes. Reports suggest that a renewal agreement has been reached, with Wolff emphasizing Russell will be part of the team during F1’s rule changes. Russell himself remains calm about the contract delay and expresses confidence in his seat security, focusing on his performance and enjoying the break without feeling rushed to reach an agreement with the team.
