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Autosport
Autosport
Sport

Why clash of driver performance and marketing may explain Russell F1 deal delay

George Russell Charles Leclerc Mercedes Alex Albon Alexander Albon LAT Images

George Russell will be a Mercedes Formula 1 driver next season, but is still in negotiations over a new deal as he seeks a "mutually beneficial" contract for 2026 and potentially beyond.

While the cynic's view of the situation would be that Russell is looking to massage a few more millions out of Mercedes, and take advantage of a season in which he has demonstrated a strong performance baseline, there's more to the situation than meets the eye.

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