George Russell's Staggering £30 Million Mercedes Salary Revealed in New Deal

George Russell has reportedly secured a massive new contract with Mercedes, which will see him earn an estimated £30 million per season. This places him among the highest-paid drivers on the Formula 1 grid, behind only Max Verstappen and his former teammate Lewis Hamilton.

Why it matters:

This significant salary increase for Russell underscores his rising value within Formula 1 and Mercedes' long-term commitment to him as a cornerstone of their future. It also reflects the escalating financial stakes in top-tier motorsport, with teams investing heavily in proven talent as the sport heads into a new regulatory era in 2026.

The Details:

• Salary: Reports from British tabloids, The Express and The Daily Mail, indicate Russell's new deal is worth an astonishing £30 million annually.
• Ranking: This figure reportedly makes Russell the third-highest-earning driver in F1, a testament to his consistent performance and potential.
  • Max Verstappen (Red Bull): Believed to be the top earner at £48 million per year.
  • Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari): Reportedly earns £45 million per campaign.
• Contract Length: Mercedes only officially confirmed Russell's contract through 2026. However, it's widely speculated that the deal includes an option for 2027, or it could be a straightforward multi-year agreement extending beyond the initially stated term.
• Negotiation Hurdles: Contract discussions reportedly took longer than expected, with the duration of the deal being a key point of contention. This suggests Russell and his management were keen on securing a long-term, lucrative agreement, while Mercedes likely aimed for flexibility.

The Big Picture:

Russell's new contract aligns with Mercedes' strategy as they prepare for the significant power unit and chassis regulation changes in 2026. Securing a talented and experienced driver like Russell for the long haul is crucial for stability and continuity during such a transformative period. This move also solidifies Mercedes' driver lineup as they look to rebound from recent challenging seasons and return to championship-winning form.

What's next:

With his future secured and a substantial pay raise, Russell will be under pressure to deliver consistent results and potentially lead Mercedes' charge in the coming seasons, especially as the new regulations kick in. His increased earnings reflect the high expectations placed upon him to perform at the very top of the sport and contribute significantly to Mercedes' competitive ambitions.