Formula 1 is experiencing days of intense tension and speculation. The paddock is in turmoil following the leak of George Russell’s new contract with Mercedes, a move that could completely change the future of Max Verstappen and Red Bull’s dominance. Is Mercedes playing its cards to attract the Dutch champion or simply securing its future with Russell? We analyze all the key aspects of this soap opera that has fans and experts glued to social media.

George Russell has been one of the standout drivers of the 2025 season, racking up podium finishes and proving himself to be one of the strongest talents on the grid. However, his contract renewal with Mercedes has not been made official, fueling rumors about the German team’s genuine interest in keeping him as its future leader .

According to sources close to the team, Russell is close to signing a two-year extension, with an option for a third until 2028. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has publicly praised Russell’s performance and maturity, but the lack of a definitive announcement has raised suspicions: Is Mercedes waiting for Verstappen before closing the door on other options?

Max Verstappen, four-time world champion and current Red Bull star, faces an unprecedented scenario. Internal turmoil at Red Bull and performance clauses in his contract have opened the door to a possible exit before 2028. If Verstappen falls outside the top three in the championship after a certain point in the season, he could activate his escape clause and negotiate with other teams .

Mercedes, which already held talks with Verstappen’s entourage last summer, hasn’t hidden its interest. Toto Wolff has been clear: “I don’t flirt outside if I’m in a good relationship, but in F1 you can never close any doors . ” The possibility of a signing for 2026, coinciding with the radical regulation and engine changes, is more alive than ever.

The leak of Russell’s new contract could be a masterstroke by Mercedes. On the one hand, it ensures the continuity of a young, fast driver committed to the project. On the other, it keeps the pressure on Verstappen and Red Bull, making it clear they have top-level alternatives and won’t hesitate to make a move if the Dutchman becomes a free agent .

Analysts point out that, although Russell is having a brilliant season, Mercedes wouldn’t hesitate to sacrifice him if it had the opportunity to sign Verstappen, considered by many to be the best driver currently in the sport. The cutthroat nature of Formula 1 means no seat is guaranteed until the ink is dry on the contract.

If Verstappen decides to leave Red Bull, the domino effect would be immediate. Mercedes is positioned as the most attractive destination, but Aston Martin, with Honda as a new engine partner, also appears on the horizon. Red Bull, for its part, would have to reinvent itself and find a new leader for its project .

Meanwhile, Russell remains calm publicly: “There’s no rush or pressure. Mercedes is my home and I trust the team . ” But the rumors are growing, and each race without an official announcement adds fuel to the fire.

The battle for the future of Formula 1 is more open than ever. Mercedes and Russell have dropped a media bombshell that puts Verstappen and Red Bull in jeopardy. Is it all a strategy to force the Dutchman’s hand, or will we really see Russell and Verstappen sharing a garage in 2026?

The only thing that’s certain is that F1’s Silly Season is crazier than ever, and any move could change the balance of power on the grid. The coming months will be decisive, and fans can’t take their eyes off the news. The battle for the Formula 1 throne has just begun!