Overview

• Mercedes has not presented a formal extension offer to Russell, with negotiations unscheduled and unlikely to finish before the summer break.
• Russell says he has shifted focus entirely to his on-track performance, confident that results will determine his 2026 tenure.
• Toto Wolff acknowledges an obligation to explore Max Verstappen’s future options but stresses there is no behind-the-scenes maneuvering.
• Wolff maintains that Russell and academy driver Kimi Antonelli remain the front-runners for Mercedes’ 2026 driver lineup.
• Russell is enjoying his strongest season yet, highlighted by a Canadian Grand Prix victory and four overall podium finishes.