Overview

• Mercedes said on X that Russell is unwell and is resting ahead of Friday’s track action in Baku.
• The team anticipates he will be ready to take part in opening practice on Friday.
• Russell’s FIA press conference slot will be handled by team-mate Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
• He arrives in Azerbaijan fourth in the Drivers’ Championship, having scored in 14 of 15 races this season.
• His new contract has not been formally confirmed, though Toto Wolff has stated he will remain with Mercedes next year, following summer speculation linked to Max Verstappen.