P1racenews AI automatic summary:
George Russell is still waiting to confirm his future on the F1 grid with Mercedes beyond the end of 2025.
According to former F1 driver Johnny Herbert, George Russell’s recent strong performances have put him in a favorable position to negotiate a new deal with Mercedes for the 2026 F1 season. Although Russell’s contract for next year has not been finalized, it is widely anticipated that he will continue with Mercedes. Despite rejecting several offers from Mercedes for better terms, Russell’s exceptional showing in Singapore, where he secured pole position and clinched his fifth career win, has further solidified his case for an extension. Herbert emphasized Russell’s consistent ability to deliver outstanding performances even when not having the best car, making him a valuable asset for any team in the F1 paddock. Herbert urged Mercedes to prioritize securing Russell on a long-term deal, as he believes it would be unwise not to lock in such a talented driver, especially with potential interest in Max Verstappen.
