F1 Fans Demand Long-Term Mercedes Contract for George Russell

An overwhelming majority of F1 fans believe George Russell deserves a long-term contract extension at Mercedes, despite ongoing negotiations and his current deal expiring at the end of the season. Russell recently secured a dominant victory in Singapore, further strengthening his position.

Why it matters:

George Russell's contract situation at Mercedes is a hot topic, particularly as the team looks to secure its future driver lineup amidst rumors linking Max Verstappen to the Silver Arrows. A long-term commitment to Russell would signal Mercedes' confidence in his abilities and provide stability for a driver who has consistently performed at a high level.

The Details:

• George Russell's current contract with Mercedes expires at the end of the current F1 season, leaving his future beyond 2024 uncertain.
• RacingNews365 previously reported that Russell has declined multiple contract offers from Mercedes.
  • He is reportedly seeking a multi-year deal with improved personal terms, including a higher salary.
• Russell's recent dominant victory in Singapore significantly boosts his bargaining power in ongoing negotiations.
• A poll conducted by RacingNews365 revealed strong fan support for a long-term deal:
  • Nearly 73% of F1 fans believe Russell deserves a stable, long-term contract with Mercedes.
  • Just under 22% of fans suggested he only merits a one-year extension for the 2026 season.
• Mercedes' rumored interest in Red Bull's Max Verstappen could potentially impact Russell's long-term security at the team.

What's next:

With his contract set to expire, the coming months will be crucial for George Russell and Mercedes. Securing a multi-year deal would solidify his role at the team and likely put an end to speculation surrounding his future. However, Mercedes' potential pursuit of Max Verstappen adds a layer of complexity, making Russell's contract negotiations a key storyline to watch in the driver market.