P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Martin Brundle has labelled George Russell “not happy” with Mercedes over its handling of his contract extension, suggesting Toto Wolff’s pursuit of Max Verstappen has unsettled the British driver.
Former F1 driver Martin Brundle believes George Russell has been negatively affected by Mercedes engaging in talks with Max Verstappen, describing him as “bruised” and “not happy” with the current situation. Brundle criticized the Toto Wolff-led team for injecting too many of their own problems into the driver line-up. Despite confirmation that Russell and Antonelli will continue with Mercedes next season, they are yet to sign contract extensions, causing contention. Brundle highlighted Wolff’s ties to Verstappen as a key factor in Russell’s dissatisfaction. The discussions between Verstappen and Mercedes have strained the relationship between Russell and the Brackley-based team. Brundle, during a conversation with Nico Rosberg on Sky Sports F1, noted Russell’s high potential and his expectation of winning world championships immediately upon joining Mercedes, which has not materialized.
