Rosberg: Russell Using Wolff's Own Tactics in Mercedes Contract Talks

Russell Using Wolff's Own Negotiation Tactics, Says Rosberg

Former Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg suggests George Russell is employing Toto Wolff's own tough negotiation tactics during current contract discussions with the Mercedes F1 team. Both Russell and rookie teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli are approaching the end of their contracts this season, leaving Mercedes' 2025 driver lineup in question.

Why it matters:

The ongoing contract talks are crucial for Mercedes as they aim to solidify their driver lineup beyond 2024. Russell's demands, particularly regarding salary parity and sponsor commitments, highlight the increasing pressures on top-tier F1 drivers and could influence future contract structures across the sport.

The big picture:

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has indicated that Russell and Antonelli are central to the team's future, despite earlier speculation linking Max Verstappen to the Brackley outfit. However, no extensions have been announced, creating uncertainty around the team's highly coveted seats.

The details:

• Wolff's Negotiation Style: Speaking on the Sky Sports F1 Show podcast, Rosberg described Wolff as "horrible to negotiate with," recalling how Wolff would "disappear off planet Earth" to avoid discussions on improved terms. Rosberg stated, "It’s horrible. I suffered a lot."
• Russell's Leverage: Rosberg believes Russell is now applying similar pressure. "George apparently is just not happy with a couple of terms in the contract," Rosberg explained.
• Salary Discrepancy: Russell, a Mercedes junior, is reportedly not on a "Lando Norris-level salary, by far," despite feeling he can perform at the same level. Rosberg noted, "George, by any means, can drive at Lando’s level and can win races and championships if he has the car."
• Sponsor Commitments: Another key sticking point is the significant increase in driver commitments for sponsors.
  • Teams rely heavily on sponsor money, offering driver time as a key return.
  • Rosberg claimed these obligations, which can reach "60 days or something, 60 in 365 days," are "really painful" for drivers.
  • Russell is reportedly seeking to reduce these demanding sponsor days, some of which are split into half-days, effectively reaching 80 days a year.

What's next:

Mercedes faces critical decisions regarding its driver lineup as contract negotiations with George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli continue. The outcome will shape the team's competitive outlook for the coming seasons.