Overview

• George Russell does not have a signed contract for 2026, although reporting says he is widely expected to remain with Mercedes.
• Ralf Schumacher said he believes Russell and Toto Wolff reached an understanding on Saturday in Singapore, citing a canceled interview and Wolff's later on-air remark that both current drivers are with Mercedes.
• Mercedes' prior talks with Max Verstappen were cited by Schumacher as a possible source of strain between Russell and Wolff, a claim not corroborated by the parties involved.
• RacingNews365 attributed the delay in a new deal to Russell seeking improved personal terms, framing the holdup as driven by the driver's side.
• Before the Singapore weekend, Russell said any renewal should be handled with care, and he then took pole and won the race, adding context to the timing of intensified discussions.