Mercedes' self-assurance is crumbling.
In the world of Formula One, the landscape is constantly shifting, and the 2023 season is no exception. Let's delve into the latest developments at Mercedes, Red Bull, and the future of Max Verstappen.
George Russell, the British driver for Mercedes, is on the brink of securing a new multi-year contract extension with the team. His current deal expires at the end of 2025, but with Mercedes holding the reins of his career management, an extension seems imminent. Russell has expressed his intention to stay with the team for a fifth season, despite media speculation to the contrary.
Meanwhile, the future of Mercedes' rookie driver, Kimi Antonelli, is yet to be officially confirmed for 2026. However, the team's commitment to nurturing its junior drivers suggests that Antonelli is likely to be retained. The young Italian driver has had a promising start, but a recent slump has left him scoreless in the last three races. After a disappointing exit in qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix, Antonelli expressed his frustration, but he seems to have bounced back and feels better now.
The negotiations between Mercedes and its drivers are influenced by the future of Max Verstappen at Red Bull. Verstappen has confirmed his stay at Red Bull for the 2026 season, but there are whispers that Mercedes might offer him a cockpit for the following year. This long-term contract could potentially reignite the flirtation with Verstappen, although no official offer has been made as yet.
Toto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, has called for an emergency meeting following a recent slump in performance by the team. The meeting, involving engineers and drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, will serve as a debrief to address the team's struggles since Russell's victory in Canada in mid-June.
In the constructors' championship, McLaren, powered by Mercedes engines, is 296 points ahead after 13 world championship races. Leading driver Russell has lost sight of overall leader Oscar Piastri in the drivers' standings.
The future of Verstappen continues to be a topic of interest, with rumours suggesting that if 2026 doesn't go as planned for Red Bull, he might consider leaving. Red Bull faces uncertainty with the departure of engine partner Honda and recent turmoil surrounding the sacking of Christian Horner.
Lewis Hamilton, the Ferrari superstar, consoled Antonelli during a brief visit to the motorhome, offering words of encouragement and support. Russell and Antonelli, whose contracts expire at the end of the season, have felt the pressure of potential contract negotiations, but they remain hopeful for the future.
In Hungary, Mercedes will revert to the old rear axle, ending an experiment with a new suspension. This decision could signal a renewed focus on performance and a challenge for the title after the major rule overhaul from next year. Russell has expressed interest in a long-term contract if Mercedes can deliver on this promise.
As the season progresses, the racing world eagerly awaits the unfolding of these developments. Stay tuned for more updates on the exciting world of Formula One.
George Russell, aiming to secure a new contract with Mercedes, is eager to stay with the team for a fifth season. The future of Mercedes' rookie driver, Kimi Antonelli, could potentially be influenced by the long-term deal of Max Verstappen at Red Bull, as Mercedes might offer Verstappen a cockpit for the following year.
