Russell’s situation took a fresh twist after his own claim that “ongoing” talks between Verstappen and Mercedes were influencing his wait for a new deal, team principal Toto Wolff and Verstappen yet to shut down the idea that this union could come to be for F1 2026.

George Russell is remaining focused on his driving despite intense rumours Max Verstappen could replace him at Mercedes for 2026.

Both Russell and his 18-year-old team-mate Kimi Antonelli do not have contracts in place for next season but, speaking ahead of his home Grand Prix, the British driver was adamant that he will be driving for Mercedes in 2026.