Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has reiterated that George Russell is set to remain with the team beyond the 2025 Formula 1 season, confirming no plans exist to part ways with the British driver despite the absence of a finalized deal.

Russell, who has consistently delivered since joining Mercedes' junior program in 2018, remains a core pillar of the team’s future, particularly as they prepare for the new regulations coming into effect in 2026.

Wolff emphasized Russell’s strong track record and the team’s unwavering confidence in him, stating that while public contract talks have been quiet, progress is underway behind the scenes.

“Well, George has always had good cards, because he has delivered since 2018. There wasn’t a season he wasn’t there, and nothing changed that in our thinking for next year,” Wolff told media after the Hungarian Grand Prix. 

Negotiations and Timing: A 50-50 Outlook

Despite this certainty about Russell’s future, Wolff teased that an official contract announcement could still be unpredictable, declaring a “50-50” chance of revealing details within the next month, possibly timed to coincide with a fan-heavy Grand Prix event.

Russell’s current contract expires at the end of 2025, and the driver himself has expressed no rush to finalize terms, preferring to recharge during the summer break and ensure the deal is “right” for both parties.

Russell echoed this sentiment, telling Sky Sports F1 that negotiations are a matter of “when, not if,” underlining his confidence in continuing with Mercedes but emphasizing the importance of taking time with the process.

“I want to go on a holiday next week and enjoy the break, and there is no time pressure my side. So whenever we come to an agreement, we'll get it done, but it’s got to be right both ways,” Russell said. 

Stability Amid Speculation

The ongoing contract talks have been shadowed by months of speculation about possible moves involving Max Verstappen and other drivers.

Wolff confirmed that Verstappen will stay with Red Bull, meaning Russell and his teammate Kimi Antonelli are expected to continue as Mercedes’ driver duo into 2026. The team’s focus now is clearly on solidifying its lineup ahead of significant regulatory changes in F1.

Russell’s performances this season, including a victory in Canada and multiple podium finishes, underscore his value to Mercedes as they seek to return to competitiveness.

Wolff’s remarks suggest that while exact contract terms remain private, there is confidence and mutual intent to continue the partnership into the forthcoming era of Formula 1.