Today at 08:20
George Russell has thrown his support behind Mercedes team
principal Toto Wolff, insisting he has never been let down by the
Austrian. That declaration comes in the midst of intense
speculation over his future at the team, with Max Verstappen
engaged in talks over leaving Red Bull for the Brackley-based
squad. The four-time grand prix winner broke that news himself over
the Austrian Grand Prix, but appears unfazed by the development.
Although he is out of contract at the end of the season, Russell
has continued to maintain that he has nothing to worry about, given
his strong start to the campaign. The 27-year-old feels there is
nothing more he can do to make the case to be retained. Over the
British Grand Prix weekend, he has reiterated that stance.
Team-mate Kimi Antonelli's deal also expires at the end of the
year, leaving the composition of Mercedes' two seats likely down to
one of three options. "I mean, every team has two seats available,
and it's normal that every team is considering what the future
holds," Russell told media, including RacingNews365 , at
Silverstone. "And I don't take that personally because I made it
clear from the beginning: I'm happy to be team-mates with anybody.
"So of course there's lots of conversations, lots of rumours, and
all of these are being pointed towards me. But from my side, that
isn't really going to be the case. I want to continue with Mercedes
into the future." Russell disclosed that he is not currently
speaking to any other teams, despite some reports to the contrary.
He insisted he does not think he will be on the move over the
winter. He also backed how Wolff is handling the situation. "The
fact is, Toto has never let me down," the British driver added.
"He's always given me his word, but he's also got to do what's
right for his team, which includes me. "But it also includes the
thousands of people who work for Mercedes. For me, it's nothing to
worry about because I don't think I'll be going anywhere. "And
whoever my teammate will be, it doesn't concern me either. So, just
focus on the driving."
