During the Thursday press conference ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, George Russell spoke candidly about his future with the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. The British driver, fresh off a brilliant victory in Canada, addressed recent rumors linking Max Verstappen to a potential move to Mercedes and clarified the current status of his own contract renewal.
George Russell confirmed that, as of now, he has not yet signed a new agreement with the team based in Brackley. Despite the ongoing speculation, he made it clear that his priority remains entirely focused on delivering a strong performance at his home race — the event he considers the most important of the year.
“I haven’t signed a new contract yet, and there’s nothing new to report compared to the last time we discussed it,” George Russell explained to the media during the FIA press conference. “Just like I’ve been doing so far, I want to keep focusing on my driving. This weekend is really important for us — it’s my home Grand Prix, my favorite event of the year. I want to dedicate all of my energy and attention to trying to win this race.”
Trust in Mercedes, but no contract signed yet
Although rumors continue to circulate in the Formula 1 paddock regarding potential changes at Mercedes — including the sensational speculation about a possible arrival of Max Verstappen — George Russell underlined that he continues to have complete trust in Team Principal Toto Wolff and in the Mercedes organization. He emphasized that all contract discussions are taking place privately, far away from media scrutiny and public speculation.
“There are a lot of ongoing discussions regarding the renewal of my contract, but none of them are public,” he clarified. “I know my team is loyal to me, and there’s no need for everything to be played out in the public eye. We’ve spoken at length. Yes, there have been various rumors, but from my side, nothing has changed. I’m giving everything I’ve got in terms of performance, and my results speak for themselves.”
Unfazed by competition or speculation
George Russell also responded directly to the rumors suggesting internal competition or the possibility of being replaced. He made it clear that he is not concerned by the chatter and remains fully focused on delivering on track.
“I’ve developed a pretty thick skin over the years,” Russell said. “I don’t need to listen to rumors or the latest headlines. I concentrate on the facts and on my driving. Every team has two seats, and it’s normal for every Formula 1 team to evaluate all possible options for the future. I’m more than happy to be teammates with anyone. What matters to me is continuing my journey with Mercedes. Toto Wolff has never let me down, and I don’t see myself leaving. Whoever ends up being my teammate doesn’t worry me at all.”
Aiming for a home victory with improved car performance
George Russell also looked back at his strong performance in the 2023 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, where he started from pole position and remained in the leading group for much of the race. This year, he believes the conditions and the performance of the Mercedes W15 are more favorable, giving him a genuine shot at fighting for the top step of the podium.
“The temperatures this weekend seem to be slightly more in our favor — not quite as extreme as 12 months ago,” Russell explained. “But they should still allow us to be more competitive than we were in Austria.”
As the 2025 Formula One season heads into one of its most iconic and emotional rounds, the Mercedes-AMG Petronas team arrives at Silverstone just one single point behind Scuderia Ferrari in the Constructors’ Championship standings. For George Russell, the motivation to win his home Grand Prix has never been stronger — both for personal pride and for the battle in the championship.
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