George Russell has made clear that Mercedes are talking to Max Verstappen about potentially driving for them in 2026. Andrew Benson explores what might happen next.

George Russell has suggested his contract renewal talks with Mercedes are being held up because the team are still keen to sign Formula One champion Max Verstappen.

Max Verstappen was linked to Mercedes by none other that George Russell himself on Thursday in Austria, now Red Bull's chief addresses the talk of the paddock. Russell revealing Mercedes and Verstappen had 'ongoing conversations' did not bother Wolff one bit.