George Russell assesses alternative F1 options to Mercedes

George Russell has expressed confidence in finding a favourable seat in F1 next season if he is replaced by Max Verstappen at Mercedes.

Russell is yet to pen an extension with Mercedes for the 2026 campaign, while Max Verstappen has been non-committal over his future with Red Bull.

It has led to increased speculation that the Dutchman is being lined up for a switch to the Brackley-based squad as early as next year.

Verstappen's arrival could mean the end of Russell's association with Mercedes and leave him looking for another team for 2026.

When asked by media including RacingNews365 about his chances of immediately landing in a strong F1 project in the event of a Mercedes exit, Russell replied: “Pretty confident, to be honest. 

“I think what I've proven so far has been plenty enough. Not really much more to say.

“Any team who have reached out in the past, I said: ‘Look I am loyal to Mercedes. That's where my future lies’.”

Having joined forces with Mercedes over eight years ago, the German manufacturer has shaped Russell's route to the sport and ultimately its works F1 team.

Any deal with a new team would have to go through Mercedes - however Russell sees the possibility of an exit as extremely unlikely.

“Ultimately, Mercedes are my managers,” he said. “So it has to be dealt through Mercedes in the first place.

“There hasn't been a lack of interest, let's say, but I've been focused on my side and I am loyal to Mercedes.

“At the end of the day, everything will work itself out. The likelihood I'm not a Mercedes next year, I think, is exceptionally low.”