Why hasn’t Mercedes secured George Russell for the coming years yet? The British driver claimed the first victory of the season for his team in Canada, but is still awaiting a contract extension. Former Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg suspects there’s more to it than just ‘no rush’ in the contract negotiations between Russell and Mercedes. ‘Perhaps there are some discussions with Max Verstappen in the background,’ the analyst speculates.
George Russell is in the final year of his current contract with Mercedes. The driver clinched the first victory of the season for the team in Canada, a performance that should arguably earn him a contract extension. Yet, there is still no official green light for Russell. “George gives us every reason to get (the contract extension) sorted out quickly,” team boss Toto Wolff told Sky Sports F1 in Montreal. “We know what he’s capable of and he’s been leading this team for a while now. He has the pace and the right attitude.”
Discussions with Verstappen?
Russell himself has stated that he is in no rush to finalize contract negotiations, and remains loyal to the German racing team. Former Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg suspects that there is more going on at his old employer. The current analyst believes that Mercedes still secretly hopes for a transfer from Max Verstappen. “There are currently contract negotiations with George Russell at Mercedes. There is some delay in this, as Toto Wolff should actually be contracting him now,” Rosberg tells Sky Deutschland. “This is his number one driver, his performances this season are again amazing. Perhaps there are some behind-the-scenes discussions with Verstappen.”
Rosberg is not entirely sure whether Mercedes’ potential hope for a collaboration with the four-time world champion is justified. “Red Bull is not stupid,” the analyst continues. “They have paid Max a fortune and contracted him for several years. I don’t think he can just walk away. But you can’t force him to stay. If he wants to leave, you have to accept that at some point.” Rumors about a possible departure of Verstappen from Red Bull have been circulating for some time, especially since the racing team has completely lost its dominance to McLaren this season.
