Wolff reacts to Hamilton, Russell Mercedes contract extensions

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has labelled Lewis Hamilton as a "pillar" of the team and George Russell as a "leading light of his generation" after the announcement that both had signed contract extensions.

Hamilton and Russell will remain with the Silver Arrows through to at least the end of 2025 after putting pen to paper on new deals.

The negotiation phase for the seven-time champion was especially drawn out given both Hamilton and Wolff had suggested a new deal was to be struck as early as the Spanish Grand Prix.

But any fears over a divorce have now been put to bed with the confirmation ahead of the Italian Grand Prix and in a statement, Wolff said: “Continuing with our current driver line-up was a straightforward decision.

"We have the strongest pairing on the grid and both drivers are playing a crucial role in the team to move us forward. The strength and stability they provide will be key building blocks for our future success.

“Our partnership with Lewis is one of the most successful in the sport’s history. It was always a formality that we would continue together – and it’s energising for us all to be confirming that publicly.

"His qualities as a pure racing driver are illustrated by his remarkable track record; but over our years together, he has grown to become a pillar and leader of our team.

"Those leadership qualities are crucial as we focus on fighting for world championships again. As F1’s biggest global star, he has also played a key role in shaping our commitments to diversity, inclusion and sustainability, that will be foundations for our success in the years ahead."

Russell repays the faith

Despite struggles in recent months, Russell has been impressive since making the step to the Brackley-based outfit from Williams last season.

”George is a leading light of his generation," hailed Wolff.

"He has repaid the faith we showed in him when promoting him to a race seat in 2022. His maiden pole position in Hungary and first Grand Prix victory in São Paulo were standout moments last season.

"As a driver, he combines razor-sharp speed with the tenacity of a true fighter. But he brings, too, an intelligence and attention to detail that will help him to continue to grow, develop and improve further.

"He is a natural fit to the team and we are delighted to have extended the relationship for the coming years.”