George Russell’s MAJOR REVENGE on Mercedes JUST LEAKED After Wolff-Verstappen Talks! Explosive Contract for F1 2026
The Formula 1 driver market for 2026 has been set ablaze with speculation following recent leaks about George Russell’s future with Mercedes and ongoing discussions between team principal Toto Wolff and four-time world champion Max Verstappen. As the 2025 season progresses, the uncertainty surrounding Russell’s contract, combined with Mercedes’ apparent interest in Verstappen, has sparked intense debate about the team’s driver lineup for the upcoming regulation changes in 2026.
George Russell, a Mercedes junior since 2017 and a full-time driver for the team since 2022, has been a standout performer in the 2025 season. With a race win in Canada and multiple podium finishes, Russell has solidified his position as a reliable and competitive driver, often maximizing the performance of the Mercedes car. Despite this, his contract, set to expire at the end of 2025, remains unsigned, fueling rumors that Mercedes is exploring other options, particularly Verstappen, who is currently contracted to Red Bull until 2028 but has performance-related exit clauses.
According to recent reports, Mercedes offered Russell a 1+1-year contract extension, which he reportedly turned down, seeking greater long-term security. This decision has been interpreted by some as Russell’s “revenge” against Mercedes for their flirtation with Verstappen. Posts on X have further amplified the drama, with claims that Russell has secured a new deal with Mercedes, potentially a 2+1-year contract with a world championship clause, positioning him as a future ambassador for the team. However, other sources suggest that negotiations with Verstappen’s entourage have reached an advanced stage, potentially leaving Russell’s seat vulnerable.
Toto Wolff has openly acknowledged Mercedes’ interest in Verstappen, stating that as a team principal, he has a duty to explore what a four-time world champion might do in the future. However, Wolff has also emphasized his satisfaction with the current lineup of Russell and rookie Kimi Antonelli, describing them as “the future” of Mercedes. Despite these assurances, Russell has hinted that the team’s talks with Verstappen are delaying his contract renewal, a sentiment that has stirred tension within the F1 paddock.
The 2026 season marks a significant shift in F1, with new car and engine regulations that could reshape the competitive landscape. Mercedes is believed to be leading in engine development, while Red Bull’s new power unit collaboration with Ford is seen as less certain. This dynamic has fueled speculation that Verstappen, who is reportedly frustrated with Red Bull’s recent performance and internal dynamics, might consider a move to Mercedes to capitalize on their potential dominance in the new era.
Russell, however, remains confident in his future, stating that the likelihood of him not driving for Mercedes in 2026 is “exceptionally low.” He has dismissed talks with rival teams like McLaren and Red Bull, emphasizing his loyalty to Mercedes, who manage his career. Despite the uncertainty, Russell’s strong performances, including a pole position and victory in Canada, have strengthened his case for a long-term deal.
As the F1 summer break approaches, both Wolff and Russell have indicated that a decision on the 2026 lineup will likely be made by August. The outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching implications for the driver market, with Verstappen’s decision potentially triggering a domino effect across the grid. For now, the F1 world watches closely as Russell’s “revenge” and Mercedes’ pursuit of Verstappen continue to dominate headlines.
