Wolff signals progress on Russell deal after Verstappen confirms Re…

Toto Wolff has indicated that negotiations to keep George Russell at Mercedes are advancing after Max Verstappen publicly committed to remain with Red Bull, a development that removes the biggest wild card from Mercedes’ driver market. (ESPN, Aug. 7, 2025). citeturn0search1

Wolff admitted he had to explore the rare opportunity of talking to Verstappen while the Dutch champion’s future was uncertain, but said that with Verstappen’s confirmation Mercedes can “go back to normal” and press ahead on Russell’s contract. That public clarity — and Verstappen’s decision to stay put — has taken the pressure off Mercedes to pursue a marquee replacement and given Russell leverage in talks. (ESPN, Aug. 7, 2025). citeturn0search1

Team sources and Wolff’s comments suggest talks are constructive and that Russell “holds good cards” thanks to consistent performances this season; the driver is out of contract at the end of the year and Mercedes has signalled it wants continuity. Wolff also said the team will pick the right moment to announce terms, hinting at a fan-filled race or after the summer break as likely timing. (RACER, Aug. 6, 2025). citeturn0search0

What this likely means for the contract: while Mercedes could opt for a short-term bridge, the tone of Wolff’s remarks and the team’s desire for stability ahead of major 2026 regulation and technical changes make a multiyear extension the more probable outcome — an inference supported by Wolff’s emphasis on planning “in the long term.” This would lock Russell into a role as the team’s experienced lead while Mercedes managers integrate rookie Kimi Antonelli into race duties and development work. (RACER, Aug. 6, 2025). citeturn0search0

On the grid implications, Verstappen’s decision effectively closed off the headline-grabbing market swing that had threatened to upend Mercedes’ driver strategy. That allows Wolff and engineering chiefs to concentrate on car upgrades and 2026 preparations rather than driver recruitment, while giving Russell and Antonelli clearer roles in the factory’s development programme. (ESPN, Aug. 7, 2025; RACER, Aug. 6, 2025). citeturn0search1turn0search0

Remaining unknowns: no contract has been publicly signed and Wolff has refused to set a firm announcement date, so supporters should expect a formal confirmation in the weeks after the summer break or at a strategic Grand Prix reveal chosen by Mercedes. (RACER, Aug. 6, 2025). citeturn0search0