George Russell ‘seriously considering’ drastic management change as 2026 Mercedes deal remains unsigned

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Mercedes driver George Russell is by far the most talented driver currently on the grid without a contract for next season.

George Russell entered the final year of his Mercedes deal this season, and a new agreement has been touted for some time.

The four-time race winner currently sits fourth in the drivers’ championship, with a significant advantage over rookie teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

However, team principal Toto Wolff may have publicly suggested that both of his drivers will remain with the team in 2026, but nothing has been confirmed yet.

Time is starting to run out, and while Russell doesn’t appear to have any other options on the grid, it’s clear that there’s an issue with the terms being discussed.

The threat of Mercedes trying to sign Max Verstappen again next year looms, and Russell wants assurance in his new deal that would see him automatically earn an extension if he beats Antonelli by a certain margin.

The fact that Russell both works for and is managed by Wolff presents an issue in negotiations.

Now, the 27-year-old is considering a change behind the scenes that might ease current talks, but would potentially make working with Wolff at Mercedes more awkward in the long run.

READ MORE: Mercedes driver George Russell’s life outside F1 from net worth to height

George Russell ‘seriously considering’ hiring an independent manager for Mercedes contract talks

A report from Autosport Web has shared more details about the talks currently going on at Mercedes.

There is still a difference of opinion on what Russell and Mercedes want out of these negotiations.

Russell understandably wants long-term security at the team which has supported him through the final years of his junior career and three seasons on loan at Williams.

This is especially true considering Mercedes are being touted as the best power unit supplier next season, which could give him the chance to be a championship contender for the first time.

However, the only other open seats on the grid are at Red Bull, Racing Bulls and Alpine, and all three teams look set to hire internally ahead of next year.

The report suggests that Russell is ‘seriously considering hiring an independent manager’ as he believes it might give him a ‘more advantageous position’ not only in current negotiations, but also in the F1 driver market from 2027 and beyond.

If Mercedes are desperate to sign Verstappen next year, Russell needs to be in the best position possible to find an alternative seat on the grid.

Russell believes an independent manager will ‘enhance his market value’ if Wolff’s dream is to unite Verstappen and Antonelli in 2027.

READ MORE: All you need to know about Mercedes F1 CEO and team principal Toto Wolff

Where could George Russell land if he leaves Mercedes after the 2026 Formula 1 season?

There are plenty of teams who would consider a move for Russell if he’s eventually forced out of Mercedes.

Christian Horner was keen on Russell at Red Bull before his exit, and if Laurent Mekies needs to find a Verstappen replacement one day, then the British driver is one of the most suitable candidates.

Fernando Alonso could retire at the end of next season, and Russell has been linked with Aston Martin, which could be an exciting project to go and work alongside Adrian Newey and Honda.

Russell would find himself in a similar position to Carlos Sainz last year if Mercedes did let him go.

Any midfield team would be mad not to try and negotiate a move, but whether that’s what he wants going forward is another matter.