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By Saajan Jogia
Sports Contributing Writer
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Mercedes AMG Formula One driver George Russell is one of the six drivers yet to secure a contract extension for the 2026 season, despite just six races remaining before the current season ends. Now though, former driver and presenter Ralf Schumacher has claimed that Russell and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff reached an agreement during the Singapore Grand Prix weekend.
The topic of Russell's potential contract extension came under the spotlight when Mercedes was in talks with Max Verstappen for a future deal. While that isn't expected to materialize next year, Russell still remains without a secure seat. The Briton proved his worth yet again at the Singapore GP last weekend, where he secured pole position and won the race the following day.
Schumacher highlighted how Wolff canceled an interview with him after qualifying and suspected that it was done to hold discussions with Russell. Speaking on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast, he said:
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“You remember, Toto Wolff had cancelled an interview appointment with us at short notice after the qualifying. I almost suspect that this was ultimately the reason, because on Sunday he admitted to us that both drivers are definitely with Mercedes. So, not that they were still negotiating on that Saturday, because somehow, George Russell was not in a good mood.
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“I believe a lot was negotiated there. But I think they reached an agreement on that Saturday. That was my feeling a bit, because otherwise Toto Wolff wouldn’t have stood in front of the camera.”
Russell's career is looked after by Mercedes itself, despite him being managed by Harry Soden. However, according to Schumacher, the Briton does not want to be advised by Wolff anymore. He added:
“Rumour has it that Russell no longer wants Toto or, in any form, Toto as an advisor. I believe, as a driver, he suffered a bit during the time they publicly flirted with Max Verstappen and pushed him a bit to the side. That’s the feeling you get.
“So, I believe there was tension, and I think especially under these conditions.”
Russell stated ahead of the Singapore GP weekend that he wanted his contract extension to be done with "care," suggesting that there is no point hurrying in such matters. Newsweek Sports reported his comments:
"I think for any driver, when you get to a certain point in your career, things have to be done right.
"Every time you renew a contract, it's the most important one of your life, and it has to be done with good care. There's nothing to worry about, and it will get done when it gets done."
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