George Russell has had an impressive start to the 2025 Formula 1 season, leading to questions about why Mercedes hasn`t yet offered him a new contract.
The 27-year-old driver has achieved three podium finishes in the first four races and is close behind championship leader Lando Norris in points.
Russell`s performance this season positions him among the top drivers, effectively maximizing the potential of his Mercedes car.
Team principal Toto Wolff has praised Russell, placing him among the top drivers in Formula 1. This makes it surprising that Russell is entering the final year of his contract without a renewal.
There are conflicting reports about whether Russell is close to a contract extension. This analysis will explore the reasons behind the current situation.
Russell`s Current Contract
Russell`s last contract renewal was in August 2023, alongside Lewis Hamilton. Both drivers` deals were reportedly set to end after the 2025 season.
In February 2024, Hamilton`s move to Ferrari for 2025 revealed his contract had an option for early termination. It`s unclear if Russell`s deal was similar. Hamilton`s departure created an opportunity for Russell to become the team`s primary driver.
In 2024, Russell outperformed Hamilton in qualifying and finished ahead in the championship standings, despite a race disqualification that wasn`t his fault.
Mercedes` decision to potentially bring in rookie Kimi Antonelli for 2025 further emphasized Russell`s role as team leader, as Antonelli would require time to adapt to F1.
So far this season, Russell has significantly outscored Antonelli, despite Antonelli showing promising speed.
Unusual Contract Delay?
In Formula 1, it`s common for top teams to secure their leading drivers with long-term contracts. Mercedes` delay in renewing Russell`s contract is somewhat unusual in this context.
McLaren, for example, has secured long-term deals with both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Norris extended his contract to 2027, and Piastri to 2028.
Max Verstappen also has a long-term contract with Red Bull until 2028, although it reportedly includes performance-based exit clauses.
Ferrari`s delay in renewing Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz`s contracts in the past was speculated to be related to their interest in signing Hamilton. Leclerc did renew, but Sainz was ultimately replaced by Hamilton.
Mercedes Waiting for Verstappen?
A key factor in Russell`s contract situation might be Mercedes` potential interest in Max Verstappen.
Following Hamilton`s announcement to leave, and amid internal issues at Red Bull, Toto Wolff publicly expressed interest in Verstappen.
Wolff admitted to talks with Verstappen but acknowledged a move for 2025 was unlikely, suggesting 2026, with new regulations, could be a more opportune time.
However, with Verstappen`s continued success at Red Bull, Wolff stated before the 2025 season that he was no longer pursuing Verstappen.
Despite Wolff`s public statements, recent concerns about Verstappen`s future at Red Bull might lead Mercedes to reconsider their options.
Russell and Verstappen as Team-mates?
It`s worth noting that Russell and Verstappen had disagreements last season, which might make them an unlikely driver pairing.
Furthermore, signing Verstappen could mean replacing Antonelli, a young driver Mercedes is heavily invested in.
While Red Bull might prioritize Verstappen`s preferences in a team-mate, some believe Mercedes might be open to a strong driver pairing regardless of past conflicts.
Experts suggest that despite Russell`s strong performances, Mercedes might still pursue Verstappen if the opportunity arises, highlighting the competitive nature of Formula 1.
What`s Next?
As the season progresses, the lack of a new contract for Russell is becoming more noticeable.
Reports suggest Russell might be close to a two-year extension, but other sources indicate no immediate agreement.
Both Russell and Wolff have given vague but positive responses when questioned about the contract, though recent comments from Wolff seemed less definitive than earlier in the season.
Wolff has emphasized Russell`s importance to Mercedes as a homegrown talent, and Russell maintains there`s no pressure to finalize a deal quickly.
However, it seems probable Russell would sign an extension if offered, especially given Mercedes` future prospects.
From Mercedes` perspective, securing a deal with Russell makes sense, even while considering other options like Verstappen.
The uncertainty around Russell`s contract is likely to increase as the season continues, particularly if he maintains his high level of performance.
It`s suggested that if a deal isn`t reached by the British Grand Prix in July, the situation might become more concerning. However, Russell`s continued strong performance makes it difficult for Mercedes to ignore his value to the team.
