Uncertain future for Russell in the 2026 F1 seats merry-go-round

George Russell is in a precarious position as 2025's F1 silly season clicks into gear

- writes Harry Smith.

The Austrian Grand Prix brought with it news of Mercedes’ ongoing talks with Max Verstappen, which were revealed by none other than Russell.

But Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has said Russell’s claim that Verstappen is speaking to Mercedes is born out of frustration that he has not been offered a new contract.

Horner told Sky Sports: “It is a lot of noise and Max gets quite annoyed by it.

“We are very clear about the contract we have with Max which runs until 2028. Anything is entirely speculative with what is being said and we tend not to pay much attention to it.

“Look, I can imagine that George is frustrated that he hasn't been given a contract yet but that is between him and his team.