Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Giles Richards

George Russell stays at Mercedes next season but door not shut on pursuit of Verstappen

George Russell raises the Singapore Grand Prix trophies after victory at Marina Bay
George Russell raises the Singapore Grand Prix trophies after victory at Marina Bay. Photograph: Jayce Illman/Getty Images

George Russell will remain with ­Mercedes for next season after the Formula One team confirmed they would be sticking with their drivers in 2026. But the length of the contracts signed by the Briton and his teammate, Kimi Antonelli, have not been specified, potentially leaving the F1 team open to once more pursue Red Bull’s Max ­Verstappen for 2027.

The long-expected decision comes after a protracted period of negotiation with Russell, as Mercedes seek stability going into the new regulations of 2026. The 27-year-old British driver has five wins in eight seasons in F1, including victory in Singapore, helping propel Mercedes into a fight for second in the world championship with Ferrari and Red Bull.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.