For months it was speculated that Max Verstappen could make use of one of his contractually recorded exit clauses to sit in the Mercedes in 2026. There was even talk of concrete conversations between the world champion and the silver arrows. The rumors apparently took George Russell with them, as F1 expert Martin Brundle revealed.
According to this, the Briton is “dissatisfied” with the current situation at Mercedes, said the 66-year-old at “Sky Sports” on the sidelines of the Grand Prize of Italy at the weekend. Russell disturb the fact that the racing team “had put together many problems himself through the decisions of team boss Toto Wolff”. This also includes holding a long time with a contract extension that the 27-year-old apparently does not like at all.
Although the Austrian recently confirmed that Mercedes will continue with Russell and Antonelli next season, both of them have not yet signed their respective contract extensions. It is unclear why the duo has not yet signed new working papers for the coming year.
According to media reports, the team from Brackley is said to have waited with a decision in order not to miss a chance of Max Verstappen.
Russell is “one of the three best drivers”
“It is very obvious that George feels quite offended through all the talk about Max and what else was going on over the summer,” said Brundle. It is now clear that the Dutch will also be traveling in the Red Bull in Formula 1 in the coming season.
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However, the former F1 driver and today’s TV expert is convinced that the successful silver arrows can also play a good role with Russell.
“He is incredibly constant, so quickly. He always gets the maximum out of the car, which is why it is so difficult for Antonelli, because he competes against one of the very best drivers,” the Briton praised his compatriot, who also received support from Nico Rosberg.
“I agree with you, Martin, George is at least one of the three best drivers this year,” said the German.