Mercedes Russell contract talks near conclusion ahead of 2026 rules reset

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said contract talks with driver George Russell are close to conclusion as the Formula 1 paddock heads into the final third of the season, but no new deal has yet been signed. Wolff made the comment after final practice at the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, while Russell said in a separate press conference that he and the team are taking their time to ensure the terms are right.

Both Russell and rookie teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli are out of contract at the end of the season. Wolff has repeatedly said he wants to retain both drivers into the major regulation reset in 2026, and on the eve of the Singapore race he described negotiations with Russell as being "super near," suggesting a resolution could be imminent. Russell, who took pole and a commanding win in Singapore, reiterated that there is no rush from either side and that contract renewal requires careful consideration. "Every time you renew a contract, it is the most important one of your life and it has to be done with good care," he said.

Sources close to the talks and figures in the sport identify the main sticking points as off-track obligations, travel commitments, and the length of...