George Russell 'bruised' by Max Verstappen talks as Mercedes 'inject problems'

Martin Brundle believes George Russell has been "bruised" by Mercedes engaging in talks with Max Verstappen. 

The former F1 driver branded the four-time grand prix winner "not happy" with the current situation, whilst claiming the Toto Wolff-led team has "injected too many of their own problems" into its driver line-up.

Despite the Austrian confirming Mercedes will continue with Russell and Antonelli next season, both are yet to sign their respective contract extensions.

The delay to the British driver being handed a new deal, in particular, is a point of contention for Brundle, who highlighted Wolff's links to Verstappen as a key reason for Russell's apparent dissatisfaction.

Whilst the Dutchman will stay with Red Bull for the 2026 season, the discussions between the four-time F1 drivers' champion and Mercedes have undermined the Brackley-based squad's relationship with Russell.

In a back-and-forth with Nico Rosberg on Sky Sports F1 before the Italian Grand Prix, Brundle explained why Mercedes had created a mess for itself.

"He's driving so beautifully, George," the 66-year-old said. "He really... he just looks the real deal, he's confident.

"But he said 'I went to Mercedes expecting to win world championships straight away, relatively straightforwardly'. And of course, that's just not happening."

Antonelli going against 'one of the very, very best'

The 2016 F1 drivers' champion, who raced for Wolff at Mercedes, agreed, before putting Brundle on the spot about Antonelli, who has struggled of late.

"I'll agree with you, Martin, that for me, George is top three, at the very least, in terms of driver this year," Rosberg said.

"Phenomenally consistent, so rapid, he is always extracting the maximum from that car, which is why it's so hard for Antonelli, also, because he's up against one of the very, very best out there, which doesn't help.

"Martin, question to you: Toto is gonna have to decide on Antonelli soon. Put pen to paper, sign him up for another year or not. If you were in Toto's shoes, what would you do?"

In response, the nine-time podium finisher pivoted back to Russell, explaining why he felt Mercedes was causing itself issues.

"I'd take him," Brundle replied. "I would have signed George a long time ago, because George is not happy, is he?

"It's very easy to see that George feels quite bruised about all the Max talk and what have you through the summer.

"But when you look at the calm of McLaren and other teams, I just think they've injected too many of their own problems into the driver lineup. I'd keep him."