Dilemma for Russell: keep the seat warm for Verstappen or leave?

12:39, 16 Jul

byLudo van Denderen

If George Russell stays with Mercedes next season, it might just be with a one-year contract. This potentially present the Brit with a choice: possibly keeping the seat warm for Max Verstappen or moving on?

George Russell has been in limbo for weeks. The driver is still waiting for the moment when he can sign a new contract with Mercedes, but it depends on Max Verstappen. If the Dutchman decides to switch to the German team, Russell might be left out in the cold.

If Verstappen chooses to stay with Red Bull Racing in 2026, then it's a waiting game for Mercedes to make advances towards the Dutchman again for 2027. But that's only possible if there's at least one seat available in ‘27 at the German squad led by Toto Wolff.

What does the future hold for George Russell (right)?

Why Russell should or shouldn't re-sign

Speculation suggests that's why Mercedes might want to offer Russell a one-year contract, keeping the option open to eventually bring Verstappen in. For Russell, this could be a disappointment but also not entirely so.

Imagine, the Mercedes car is top-notch in 2026. In that case, Russell has the chance to win the world title - and who knows what Mercedes would do if they are tasked with choosing between Verstappen and Russell in 2027. On the other hand, every driver wants some certainty for multiple years, to grow with a team and not just be a man of transition.

Should Russell indeed be presented with a one-year contract and decides not to sign it, there are plenty of teams that would want to sign him for 2026. Aston Martin has been brought up in the rumour mill for some time - although, as far as it's known, no talks have taken place. But surely Alpine will present itself if Russell becomes available.

Is Alpine a destination for Russell?

For the French team, Russell would be an absolute asset, especially considering his history with Mercedes. Remember, starting next season, Alpine will have access to Mercedes engines. And what about Cadillac? Indeed, a team likely to start at the back of the F1 grid. Yet, the Americans would probably love to bring in Russell for many years for a no doubt excellent salary.

For now, the expectation is that Russell will stay with Mercedes - whether with a one-year contract or not. But should he decide to leave, the Brit certainly doesn't need to worry about his career.