George Russell says he is the reason a new contract hasn't been signed

Emily Nicole

George Russell says he is the reason a new contract hasn't been signed image

George Russell says there's still time to sign a new contract with Mercedes, amidst speculation he could be replaced by Max Verstappen

The British driver's contract has been talk of the paddock throughout the season, but he doesn't seem phased by it. 

Speaking ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, Russell said it was his decision to not put pen to paper over the summer break. 

 

"Toto and the team were very open to discuss and come to a solution during the break but I didn't want to use those precious two weeks that we have to really take the time off and recharge.@

"Ultimately, there is no time pressure from my side, there's no major time pressure from the team's side, we'll get it done when the time is right."

📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp

Speculation remains around whether Russell will retain his seat or not, and with the season returning the topic will surely be discussed openly again. 

The Mercedes driver had had a good run of performances so far this season, with one race win in Canada and five podium finishes. 

He's also fourth in the standings, 15 points behind Verstappen.

Russell says his focus now is to continue getting results with Mercedes. 

"The truth is, I just want to win and I want to win with Mercedes. If I could choose, that is what I would choose to do but of course things have to be right, things have to be aligned."

Formula 1 news and related links

Emily Nicole

Emily Nicole is a freelance contributor for The Sporting News. Emily is a sports journalist, with a passion for motorsport with professional experience across print, broadcast and social media. Emily holds a Journalism Bachelor’s Degree and a Media & Communications Master’s Degree, both from City, University of London. You can follow more of Emily's work on The F1 Rundown on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@thef1rundown).