Jenson Button Affirms George Russell’s Future at Mercedes: “No Room for Doubt in Brackley”
Former Formula 1 champion Jenson Button has voiced his strong support for George Russell’s continued presence at Mercedes amidst ongoing contract negotiations. The racing world is abuzz with speculation as talks between Russell and the Brackley-based team extend into the 2026 season.
Button, who secured a championship victory with Brawn in 2009, stands firmly behind Russell, who partnered with Lewis Hamilton until his departure in 2022. With a no-nonsense approach, Button emphasized, “I don’t think they mess around in Mercedes. It’s always very clear to the drivers whether they want them to be there or not for the following season.”
Rumors have swirled regarding Max Verstappen potentially switching to Mercedes, fueled by reported internal conflicts within the Red Bull ranks. Mercedes’ Team Principal, Toto Wolff, has not shied away from the idea of bringing the four-time champion on board, engaging in “very constructive conversations” with Verstappen in 2024.
As Verstappen’s future at Red Bull seems more secure, Wolff has tacitly assured Russell’s position within his team, stating, “It is almost an open secret that we have every intention to keep our drivers for the long term.” While not divulging all discussions, Wolff hinted at ongoing negotiations that prioritize both the team’s and driver’s best interests.
Button echoes the sentiment that Russell deserves the opportunity to showcase his skills in the upcoming F1 era, contending, “He should be given the opportunity going into the new era of the sport to fight for race wins.”
With F1 set to introduce new technical regulations in 2026, Mercedes aims to build a stable team around proven talent. Russell has consistently outperformed expectations, notably out-driving Hamilton on several occasions. His stellar performance this season further cements his position as a valuable asset to the team.
As the Formula 1 landscape evolves, all eyes remain on Mercedes and the impending decision regarding George Russell’s future. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this gripping saga in the world of motorsport.