George Russell confident Mercedes gives him the best shot at the 2026 Formula 1 title. George Russell shares his excitement after renewing with Mercedes.

F1 | Russell smiling in interviews: “Mercedes is the best team to win in 2026”

George Russell is enjoying his renewed contract with Mercedes, and it’s not just the salary putting a smile on his face. While the financial terms make him the third highest-paid driver on the grid after Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, it’s also the team’s competitive outlook and future opportunities that excite him.

Although it’s not yet clear if the contract is multi-year, two things are certain about George Russell’s stay at Mercedes. First, the salary increase reflects his impressive performance this season. Second, it doesn’t end the speculation about Max Verstappen’s potential move to Brackley, as Toto Wolff has openly stated his ambition to have the Dutch driver in the team, and next season discussions about Max’s future, and even Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s, are expected to resume.

Speaking ahead of the United States Grand Prix, George Russell said, “We’re not getting the results we believe we should, but next year is a huge opportunity for me as a driver and for the team. It’s a major and exciting change, and I’m happy to continue this journey with Mercedes.”

He added, “For any team-driver combination, it’s important that the driver is happy and feels supported. Toto was very generous with his offer, which wasn’t necessary. He could have been much stricter, but he recognized my work, wants to reward it, and ensures I’m in the best position for next year. That’s why I’m smiling and excited for the future. I’m loyal to the team, they’re loyal to me, and I believe staying with Mercedes gives me the best chance to win a world championship in 2026. Maybe I’m wrong, but if I could choose anywhere, it would still be Mercedes.”

Regarding the contract length, George Russell confirmed it is “multi-year,” specifying it is certainly valid for 2026, implying possible performance-based renewal clauses. “It always depends on results, but that applies to any driver. What allows me to sleep easy is knowing my performance is excellent,” Russell concluded, fresh from his Mercedes renewal, according to RacingNews365.