Russell and Antonelli offer update on Mercedes contract talks amid Verstappen rumours

Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli have given updates on their contract situations for 2026 ahead of this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, amid ongoing rumours surrounding Max Verstappen potentially joining the team.

Russell has faced questioning for several weeks about his future with Mercedes, as speculation grew that Verstappen could move to the Silver Arrows ahead of regulation changes next season.

While reports suggest that talks between Verstappen and Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff have cooled in recent days, no confirmation was given on Thursday during media day ahead of the race at Spa.

"It's not really having any impact on me whatsoever," said Russell when asked about the contract situation.

"I don't lose any sleep over it, I don't really think about it because as I've always said, the best thing you can do is drive fast on track. Obviously we are talking in the background, there's nothing for me to be concerned about but there's nothing to announce."

Russell has enjoyed a relatively strong campaign for Mercedes in 2025 so far, consisting of five podiums which included victory in the Canadian Grand Prix.

Despite the uncertainty of his contract situation, Russell claimed he has not looked to other options on the grid for 2026 and intends to extend his relationship with Mercedes for a fifth season.

He added: "I'm not really exploring options at the moment. Obviously I'm sort of managed and controlled by Mercedes so ultimately they're in control of my destiny but I'm performing, I'm doing the job, have the majority of the points for the team so they want me as much as I want them. There's a lot been blown up in the media, I'm not even thinking about it really because I know everything will work itself out in due course.

"[It] feels like everyone is more worried about my future than myself to be honest. I've got nothing to worry about, I know there will be a space for me in F1 one way or another next season. I've got no doubt about that."

Team mate Kimi Antonelli also provided an update on his contract situation, with the Italian rookie having yet to be confirmed for 2026 as well.

The 18-year-old has made steady progress after 12 Grands Prix, which included taking his maiden podium in Montreal, and it's believed he will be retained given Mercedes' push to bring him up through the junior ranks.

"One million dollar question," said Antonelli in the drivers' press conference when asked about his own future.

"Never been worried, I know the situation, know what the team wants looking at the future. Toto has been clear which is good to see. The team is working well, line-up is good. Me and George working well together, we’re doing a good job and a good atmosphere in the team.

"Nice to go back to factory and see how much the team is pushing. Good dynamic in team. The team knows what is best and I’m confident I’m in a good position."