George Russell-Toto Wolff 'tension' theory raised after Max Verstappen talks

Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes there is “tension” between Mercedes driver George Russell and his boss Toto Wolff.

Russell still has not agreed on a contract extension with the Brackley-based squad and remains without a drive for the 2026 F1 campaign.

However, the five-time race winner is widely expected to remain put next year, and RacingNews365 the contract delay stems from Russell himself, who is seeking better personal terms.

Mercedes team boss Wolff has long been known to hold an interest in signing Max Verstappen - a situation that Schumacher suggested has caused a divide between Wolff and Russell.

“Rumour has it that Russell no longer wants Toto or, in any form, Toto as an advisor,” Schumacher told the Backstage Boxengasse podcast.

“I believe, as a driver, he suffered a bit during the time they publicly flirted with Max Verstappen and pushed him a bit to the side. That’s the feeling you get.

“So, I believe there was tension, and I think especially under these conditions.”

Russell enjoyed a positive weekend last time out in Singapore, clinching pole position before adding to his F1 win tally on Sunday.

Schumacher believes progress was made in the negotiations after Russell's impressive lap that secured his starting position at the head of the field last Saturday.

“You remember, Toto Wolff had cancelled an interview appointment with us at short notice after the qualifying,” Schumacher added, referring to Sky Germany's live coverage.

“I almost suspect that this was ultimately the reason, because on Sunday he admitted to us that both drivers are definitely with Mercedes. So, not that they were still negotiating on that Saturday, because somehow, George Russell was not in a good mood.

“I believe a lot was negotiated there. But I think they reached an agreement on that Saturday. That was my feeling a bit, because otherwise Toto Wolff wouldn’t have stood in front of the camera.”