Overview

• Discussions picked back up at Zandvoort after Russell requested a summer-break pause to recharge and consider off-track factors.
• Wolff describes the agreement as essentially done, saying talks now cover performance optimisation, marketing days and travel commitments.
• Sky Sports reports the extension under discussion would keep Russell at Mercedes through at least the end of 2027, though it is not yet signed.
• Russell previously linked delays to Wolff’s exploratory conversations with Max Verstappen, who has since confirmed he will remain at Red Bull.
• Mercedes continues to back rookie Kimi Antonelli as a long-term investment despite recent struggles, with both drivers out of contract at year-end.