Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has fired back at Red Bull’s Christian Horner, accusing him of “stirring things up” after Horner suggested that George Russell could be a future target for Red Bull. The speculation comes amid Mercedes’ recent struggles and Russell’s ambitions of becoming a world champion, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the 2024 season.

Russell, now in his third season with Mercedes, delivered a strong performance at the Singapore Grand Prix, defending his position and finishing fourth behind Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. Despite Mercedes’ recent decline in form, Russell remains a significant talent in Formula 1, catching the attention of Red Bull.

Horner hinted that Red Bull, which is vying to secure Max Verstappen’s fourth consecutive world title, might consider Russell as a potential replacement for Sergio Perez. “It would be foolish not to take him into consideration,” Horner stated, acknowledging Russell’s potential and the fact that his contract ends next year.

Toto Wolff, however, was quick to dismiss the idea, emphasizing Russell’s long-term commitment to Mercedes. “George is a Mercedes driver and has been forever, and hopefully, will be forever. We have a long contract with him,” Wolff said. He also criticized Horner for trying to create unnecessary drama, stating, “He’s always stirring things up; it’s part of the game.”

With Lewis Hamilton set to leave Mercedes for Ferrari after the 2024 season, Russell is expected to take on the role of the team’s lead driver. Rising star Andrea Kimi Antonelli, just 18 years old, will replace Hamilton as Russell’s new teammate.

Mercedes currently sits fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, with six races remaining to catch Ferrari. As the 2024 season approaches, Wolff is keen to end any speculation surrounding Russell’s future, asserting his confidence in the young British driver’s continued presence with Mercedes