Fri Jul 04 04:50:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

George Russell’s Mercedes contract expires at the end of 2025, and negotiations for an extension are reportedly complicated. An Italian news agency, FUno analisi tecnica, reports that Russell rejected a 1+1 year contract extension because Mercedes is also in advanced talks with Max Verstappen. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has acknowledged these attempts to bring in Verstappen, possibly capitalizing on the 2026 regulation changes. Despite Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull until 2028, Wolff is actively pursuing him, drawn to the potential of the new car regulations in 2026. While Wolff has suggested that Verstappen is unlikely to join for 2026, FUno analisi tecnica suggests Russell declined the 1+1 deal as it was designed to keep a seat open for Verstappen in 2027, raising concerns about his long-term security with the team.

**News Article:**

**Russell Rejects Mercedes Contract Offer Amid Verstappen Rumors**

*By Saajan Jogia*

Silverstone, UK – Tensions are reportedly rising within the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team as George Russell has allegedly rejected a contract extension, fueling speculation about Max Verstappen potentially joining the team.

According to FUno analisi tecnica, Russell was offered a 1+1 year extension that would have kept him with the team through 2026, but he declined the offer. The report suggests that the short-term nature of the deal was designed to keep a seat open for Verstappen in 2027.

Russell, whose current contract expires at the end of 2025, has reportedly expressed concern over the lack of long-term security offered by Mercedes. He remains confident in his ability to secure a spot on the grid next season but desires a firm commitment.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has publicly acknowledged discussions with Verstappen, despite the Red Bull driver being contracted through 2028. With major regulation changes set to debut in 2026, Wolff is believed to be aggressively pursuing Verstappen in an attempt to replicate the success the team enjoyed with Lewis Hamilton during the hybrid era.

While Wolff has downplayed the possibility of Verstappen joining the team in 2026, the report fuels further questions about Russell’s future with Mercedes and the team’s long-term driver strategy. Verstappen’s camp has been in contact with Mercedes as well.

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