George Russell Secures Mercedes Seat Through 2027 With Performance Clause

George Russell has revealed that his new Mercedes contract includes a performance clause that guarantees his seat for the 2027 season if he meets certain targets during the 2026 season. This clause gives Russell control over his future with the team, contrasting with the uncertainty earlier in the year when Mercedes boss Toto Wolff was pursuing Max Verstappen. Russell's deal is structured as a one-plus-one contract, common in Formula 1, with the option for automatic renewal based on his performance. The contract negotiations were prolonged due to Wolff's interest in Verstappen, but Russell believes that the delay ultimately resulted in a better deal with increased pay and freedoms. While Verstappen remains a potential Mercedes target for the future, Russell is confident his position is secure as long as he performs, and he downplays any personal friction with Verstappen. The clause also means that if Verstappen were to join Mercedes, it would likely be teammate Kimi Antonelli, not Russell, who would be at risk of losing his seat.