Italian newspaper Il Corriere della Sera claims that contract negotiations between George Russell and Mercedes have concluded and that the parties are close to reaching a new agreement covering the 2027 season. According to the newspaper, an official announcement could be made public at this weekend's Austrian Grand Prix.
The Verstappen option may be closed.
Analysts point out that if Russell's continued presence at Mercedes is confirmed, Max Verstappen's move to the team will be completely off the table. Red Bull is still awaiting a definitive answer regarding the Dutch four-time world champion's future for the 2027 season. However, current reports suggest that Verstappen's plans do not include Mercedes.
Russell's situation at Mercedes.
Russell continues to race for Mercedes under his current contract. The British driver has filled one of the Brackley-based team's lineups since 2022. The potential extension is seen as a significant step in the team's process of finalizing its lineup ahead of the 2026 technical regulation changes.