Relaxed Russell says there is "no stress" regarding Mercedes contract despite Verstappen rumours

A relaxed George Russell says there is "no stress" regarding his contract with Mercedes, despite rumours of Max Verstappen making a massive switch from Red Bull to the German team.

Russell's contract at Mercedes expires at the end of this season after joining Mercedes in 2022, taking three Grands Prix wins and 17 podiums since moving from Williams.

However, there is continued speculation about a possible move for Verstappen to Mercedes, with it being known that CEO and team principal Toto Wolff had the opportunity to sign a young Dutchman before Red Bull did so.

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Mercedes pledged their future with Andrea Kimi Antonelli, with the 18-year-old Italian replacing the outgoing Lewis Hamilton, with Wolff not wanting to let another young talent slip through his fingers like Verstappen. As a result, one seat in the German team has been filled for many more years.

Russell 'believes in himself' to get a new contract

Speaking at Thursday's press conference at the Japanese Grand Prix, Russell was asked about his expiring contract, calmly stressing he has no worries about it

"From my side, there’s no stress whatsoever regarding a contract," said the Brit at Suzuka. "Ultimately, contracts are in place in Formula 1, and things change very quickly. I believe in myself. You have to perform, and it’s pretty much as simple as that."

Swift negotiations with Toto Wolff

"When it comes down to contract discussions, I think with us in the past, with Toto, it’s taken no more than 24 hours to have the conversation," continued Russell, expecting negotiations to be quick and easy when signing is in order.

"Then, it goes to the lawyers, and we get something in place. So, there is no rush from my side, there are no concerns, and there is no pressure. I’m enjoying where I’m at in the sport right now, enjoying my performance, and just enjoying going racing. That’s the main priority right now," Russell concluded.

This article was written in collaboration with Kimberly Hoefnagel