George Russell says he doesn't need long-term security as he looks to renew his Mercedes Formula 1 deal, which is set to expire at the end of 2025.
Now Max Verstappen has publicly committed to Red Bull for 2026 and put an end to incessant speculation over a Mercedes swap, the ball is the Silver Arrows' court to sort out fresh contracts for Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli , which is expected to happen over the summer break.
For rookie Antonelli, being rewarded with a new deal amid a difficult spell for him could provide a welcome boost , a formal display of Mercedes backing its soon-to-be 19-year-old talent as he learns the trade ahead of the all-important 2026 rules shift.
While Russell is also managed by Mercedes, like Antonelli, his situation is quite different to that of