George Russell may have started the 2025 Formula 1 season strong, but questions around his long-term future at Mercedes continue to stir headlines. While the Briton has performed consistently on the track, his contract situation has become a topic of growing speculation—especially in the wake of comments made by other drivers and team insiders.

With Lewis Hamilton's exit leaving a leadership vacuum at Mercedes, many expected Russell to quickly step into that role both on and off the grid. Yet despite his solid results and growing presence in the paddock, Russell hasn’t inked a new deal with the Silver Arrows. And fans are starting to wonder: what’s the holdup?

Let’s dive into what’s really happening behind the scenes, why Russell is being name-dropped in unexpected comparisons, and what his latest comments reveal about his mindset going forward.

A Strong Start to the 2025 Season

George Russell 2025 campaign has been impressive by most standards. He’s consistently qualifying in the top six, showing strong pace on Sundays, and playing a key role in Mercedes' efforts to catch up with Red Bull and Ferrari. The team may not be back at the peak of its powers just yet, but Russell has been a bright spot.

Still, it’s the lack of a contract extension that’s caught people’s attention. With Hamilton off to Ferrari and Mercedes investing heavily in their next-gen car, Russell was expected to be the face of the team moving forward. Yet as of now, no new deal has been announced—and that’s raised more than a few eyebrows.

In a recent interview, Russell addressed the situation directly. "If you perform, everything is good," he said, brushing aside rumors that there’s any tension between him and the team. “Right now, the focus is on delivering results. Contracts take care of themselves when the timing is right.”

Rising Comparisons: Gabriel Bortoleto’s Surprising Take

While Russell’s future remains under the spotlight, another storyline has emerged: his name is being used as a benchmark by younger drivers, even those fighting at the back of the grid.

Gabriel Bortoleto, currently in his rookie season with one of F1's struggling teams, recently made headlines for comparing himself to Russell. “George didn’t score in his rookie year at Williams either,” Bortoleto pointed out, defending his own performance. “You’ve got to look at the car and the circumstances.”

The comparison, while optimistic, raised some valid points. Russell, too, came through the ranks with hype but endured a tough start in F1 due to an uncompetitive car. That narrative now plays in his favor as he becomes a reference point for drivers trying to prove themselves amid adversity.

For Russell, the comments are likely flattering—but also a sign of how his reputation has evolved in the sport. He’s no longer just the young hopeful; he’s become a benchmark.

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Why the Contract Delay?

So why hasn’t Russell signed a new contract yet?

There are a few possible reasons. First, Mercedes might be keeping their options open. With the 2025 driver market shaping up to be one of the most competitive in years—thanks to rising stars like Oscar Piastri and veterans like Carlos Sainz still without confirmed seats—Mercedes could be evaluating the bigger picture.

Second, Russell himself might be weighing his options. While he’s made it clear that he’s happy at Mercedes, the team hasn’t been in title-winning form for the past few seasons. If the 2025 car doesn’t make a leap forward, could Russell consider a bold move elsewhere?

Third, negotiations simply take time. Teams and drivers often wait until mid-season to lock in contracts, especially when both sides want to understand how the car is developing and whether championship contention is on the horizon.

In short, there’s no panic on either side. But the delay is enough to keep the rumor mill spinning.

A Leader in the Making?

Regardless of his contract status, Russell is clearly evolving into a team leader. With Hamilton gone, he’s been more vocal on team radio, more assertive during strategy calls, and more visible during media briefings.

Team Principal Toto Wolff has praised Russell’s maturity, noting, “George has really stepped up this year. He’s pushing the team forward and showing he can lead both on the track and behind the scenes.”

That kind of praise doesn’t come lightly, especially in a team that once revolved entirely around Hamilton. For Russell, it’s both a compliment and a challenge. He now carries more weight—and more pressure—than ever before.

The Bigger Picture at Mercedes

It’s important to view Russell’s situation within the broader Mercedes strategy. The team is not just rebuilding a car—they’re rebuilding a dynasty. Hamilton’s departure marked the end of an era. Now it’s about shaping the next one.

Mercedes knows it needs a driver lineup that can deliver not just performance but also consistency and brand value. Russell fits that mold perfectly: young, articulate, marketable, and quick.

But could they be tempted by someone like Piastri if McLaren doesn’t lock him down? Or could Andrea Kimi Antonelli, their teenage prodigy, fast-track his way into a seat sooner than expected?

There’s no shortage of options. That’s why locking in Russell now—or at least clarifying intentions—might bring some much-needed stability to the team.

Russell’s Perspective: Calm and Composed

For now, Russell seems unfazed by all the chatter. He’s been through media storms before—remember the drama when he replaced Hamilton for one race at Bahrain in 2020 and nearly won?

“I know how this works,” Russell said recently. “There’s always noise around contracts and seats, but I’m focused on racing. Everything else will happen when it needs to.”

It’s a mature response, and it reflects his confidence in where he stands. He knows his value. He knows what he brings to the team. And perhaps most importantly, he knows that F1 is a marathon, not a sprint.

Conclusion: What’s Next for George Russell?

Russell’s silence on his contract has now been broken—but it hasn’t given us any definitive answers. What we do know is that he’s performing well, earning comparisons for all the right reasons, and gradually stepping into a leadership role at Mercedes.

The next few months could be pivotal. If Mercedes regains form and Russell keeps delivering results, a new deal feels inevitable. But if things stay uncertain, the 2025 driver market could get very, very interesting.

One thing is clear: Russell isn’t just racing for points—he’s racing for a legacy. And whether he signs tomorrow or later this season, he’s already made himself indispensable to the Silver Arrows.