Toto Wolff has hailed George Russell as 'formidable' and highlighted a clear step up from his team leader as Mercedes continue contract talks in the wake of a dominant Singapore Grand Prix victory from pole. Russell's win marked his second of the season and helped cement Mercedes in second place in the constructors', now 27 points clear of Ferrari.
Negotiations ongoing, confidence high
Russell is out of contract at the end of the current season, with both sides locked in discussions over fresh terms. Wolff indicated that an agreement is a matter of detail rather than major sticking points, stressing that good deals take time and that both parties are aligned on the big picture.
Driving at a new level
According to Wolff, Russell's 2025 campaign reflects maturity and speed in equal measure. The team boss pointed to a season largely free of errors, with the Briton himself quick to own any off-weekends. In Singapore, the combination of car, tyres, and driver clicked to produce control from lights to flag, even when pressure briefly built behind.
From setback to statement
Wolff also noted Russell's growth since the disappointment of his last-lap crash at Marina Bay in 2023. This time, there was no repeat: Russell managed the pace, eked out an advantage, and kept risks to a minimum. It was a composed, comprehensive performance in one of the calendar's most demanding races.
Season snapshot and milestones
- Two wins and eight podiums so far, underpinning his strongest campaign with Mercedes.
- On course to surpass his career-best points tally of 275 from 2022.
- Now in his fourth season at the team, increasingly comfortable as the reference point on Sundays.
What next for Russell and Mercedes
Contract signatures may not be imminent, but the direction of travel is clear. Russell's form gives Mercedes a stable pillar to build around as the team targets strong finishes and consolidates second in the standings. The remaining races will serve as both a performance benchmark and a bridge to the next chapter of their partnership.
For Wolff, the takeaway is simple: when car and driver are in sync, dominance follows. For Russell, the goal is to keep the bar high — on track, and soon, on paper.
