Mercedes drivers await contract renewals: George Russell’s F1 deal in focus. Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton and Kimi Antonelli await contract updates.

Mercedes drivers await contract renewals: Russell’s deal in focus

The atmosphere at Mercedes hasn’t been ideal in recent weeks. Both drivers were pushing a temperamental W16 to its limits while waiting for contract renewals that hadn’t yet materialized. Toto Wolff had been busy negotiating with Max Verstappen, creating additional anxiety for the two young drivers, tied for years to the team’s management, which prevented them from exploring other seats. Once the deal with the Dutchman fell through, Wolff returned to the table with the two main drivers as if nothing had happened.

Russell’s negotiation hurdles

George Russell, however, has not been as patient as in the past. His contract negotiations are currently stalled over two key issues: salary and duration. The British driver is seeking a pay increase to match peers such as Lando Norris or Charles Leclerc—or perhaps even more as compensation for the “disruption” caused by the team principal. Mercedes is willing to do whatever it takes to retain its talent, but reportedly asked Wolff to cover the extra cost personally. The second issue is contract length. According to Franco Nugnes on his Motorsport podcast, the proposal on the table is just for a single year. This approach gives the King’s Lynn native the option to leave if the project falters but also keeps the door open to other potential suitors.

Kimi Antonelli’s long-term plan

For Kimi Antonelli, the offer appears to be a long-term deal. While the Italian hasn’t shined during the European season—due to both mistakes and misfortune—Mercedes still sees significant growth potential in the 19-year-old. Giving a rookie the machinery of a top team was always going to be challenging. In recent weeks, rumors circulated about a possible swap with Carlos Sainz or even a loan to Alpine, but Antonelli’s performance in Baku confirms his raw talent, which can be refined with experience. After much uncertainty, Mercedes seems to be returning to its original plan. Now it’s only a matter of signing and making the official announcement, with no rush in preparation for the 2026 market.