George Russell has revealed that Mercedes is in discussions with Max Verstappen about a potential move for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Russell, whose own contract is up next year, expressed confidence despite the talks, stating, “It’s only normal that conversations with the likes of Verstappen are ongoing.”
He added that team principal Toto Wolff has assured him of his performance.
Verstappen, currently under contract with Red Bull until 2028, has remained evasive about his future.
A move to Mercedes could be appealing given Red Bull’s recent performance dip and Mercedes’ perceived advantage in 2026 engine development.
Red Bull has also seen key figures depart, including design legend Adrian Newey. The relationship between Jos Verstappen and Christian Horner also remains strained.
While a Russell-Verstappen pairing might raise questions due to their past dynamic, Wolff has indicated that Russell’s contract talks are on a timeline, separate from performance concerns.
