George Russell confirms exclusive Mercedes F1 talks for 2026 after Canadian GP win, boosting contract value amid Aston Martin rumours.
George Russell spoke about his contract situation over the Canadian Grand Prix weekend. The Mercedes driver is currently without a seat for next season.
While speculation has linked him with a potential move to Aston Martin F1, his victory yesterday is clearly a valuable asset as negotiations are set to begin soon — primarily with Mercedes F1, if the Briton is to be believed.
How much will this perfect Canadian weekend — pole position and victory — help him in securing a 2026 contract?
“It doesn’t hurt! Absolutely not. But, you know, as I’ve said many times, I’m not at all worried about next year,” he said after his win.
“I know I’ll be on the grid next year. I feel like I’m driving better than ever. I still have untapped potential. I feel ready to fight for a world title, and I think results like Montreal, like Bahrain earlier this year, where we had half a chance for a good result, we’re ready to seize them. And I’m pretty relaxed. I’m just enjoying the moment, enjoying my racing, and taking things week by week.”
Is he 100% sure it will be Mercedes next year, or is he also in talks with other teams?
“No. I’m not talking to anyone else or to the teams that have shown interest. I’ve been pretty open: I intend to stay with Mercedes,” Russell replied, referring to the rumors linking him with Aston Martin F1.
“That’s always been clear. And I’m loyal to Mercedes. They gave me the chance to get into Formula 1. There’s been no hard feelings during the discussions that took place, especially around Max. Because, as I’ve said repeatedly, why wouldn’t teams be interested in Max?”
“If no drivers were under contract for next year, Max would be number one on every team’s list. And that’s understandable. But in the end, there are two seats in every team. I knew that if I kept performing the way I have, my position wouldn’t be under threat at all. So I feel in a good place.”
“We’re not in a rush to negotiate a contract. We want to win together. Especially now that Kimi and I are teammates; we achieve a result like Canada, a win with a double podium while we’re both young Mercedes drivers, both performing well. Why change something that’s working?”
The answer may ultimately depend on one man: Max Verstappen. As long as his future remains undecided, Mercedes — like the rest of the grid — keeps one eye on the reigning World Champion. Russell and Antonelli may be delivering strong results, but Verstappen’s availability has the potential to reshuffle the entire driver market. In truth, Mercedes won’t fully commit until Max makes his move.