George Russell has provided insight into his relationship with Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff, noting a closer bond in recent years. This comes as Russell navigates the 2026 Formula 1 season with Mercedes. The British driver’s contract with the Brackley-based team extends through the current 2026 season.
Russell’s current deal was announced on October 15, 2025, concluding a period of speculation. This followed Mercedes’ public interest in Max Verstappen during the summer of 2025.
The contract, reportedly valued at approximately £30 million per year, includes specific clauses. Wolff previously acknowledged an exit option for Russell at the close of the 2026 season.
Russell clarified that his position for the 2027 season is contingent on his performance. He stated that if he achieves certain targets during 2026, his contract will automatically renew for 2027.
‘My seat for 2027 is in my hands,’ Russell stated regarding his contract situation.
Russell has spoken about the deepening connection with Wolff, highlighting their frequent interactions away from the track. He mentioned that he and his partner Carmen maintain a close relationship with Toto and Susie Wolff.
The 2026 season sees Russell partnered with Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes. Both drivers were confirmed for the current season on October 15, 2025.
Despite earlier pursuits of Verstappen, Wolff has since confirmed that Mercedes intends to retain Russell and Antonelli for the 2027 season. This effectively ends speculation linking Verstappen to Mercedes for that period.
Russell currently holds third place in the drivers’ championship with 106 points after seven rounds of the 2026 season. Antonelli leads the championship with 156 points, while Lewis Hamilton is second with 115 points.
Russell has secured two victories this season, winning the Australian and Austrian Grands Prix. He also achieved wins in the Canadian and Singapore Grands Prix during the 2025 season.
Recent performance has seen Russell under scrutiny, particularly after being outperformed by Antonelli for much of the current season. He experienced a qualifying incident at the British Grand Prix, sliding into barriers.
Russell attributed some struggles to a potential lack of straight-line speed in his car. Wolff, however, downplayed this, noting a minimal time difference on the straight.
Reports have indicated rising tensions between Russell and Wolff, particularly following the British Grand Prix. Russell had questioned his car’s performance during the event.
