Mere

Russell set to sign new Mercedes contract, putting an end to Verstappen rumours

George Russell this weekend at Spa
George Russell this weekend at SpaMARCEL VAN DORST / NurPhoto / NurPhoto via AFP
After several months of rumours concerning Max Verstappen potentially replacing George Russell at Mercedes, the Englishman is finally set to extend his contract with the Silver Arrows.

After the last race in Belgium, it was reported that Max Verstappen would be staying at Red Bull for 2026, with the possibility of him activating a release clause ending, and to further rule out the Dutchman joining the German team, it now seems as if Russell has extended his deal.

Read more about Verstappen's situation here.

According to Sky Sports and the Daily Mail, the driver is in the process of signing a contract worth £30 million a year, which will last for an initial two seasons.

Negotiations are said to have"accelerated in recent weeks" under pressure from Mercedes, who want to seal the extension of their star driver before the summer break.

Russell has enjoyed a strong season, winning the Canadian Grand Prix and sitting in fourth place in the standings with 157 points, ahead of Charles Leclerc (139 pts) and close behind Verstappen (185).