F1: Russell plagued by rumours rival Verstappen is replacing him ahead of home GP
Victory at Silverstone for George Russell could open door for Red Bull rival to replace him at Mercedes
George Russell heads into his home British Grand Prix this weekend haunted by rumours and unconfirmed reports that fierce rival and four-time world champion Max Verstappen has accepted an offer to replace him next year.
As Formula 1 returns to the circuit that hosted its first world championship race 75 years ago, the 27-year-old Briton may be caught on the horns of an extraordinary dilemma as he seeks a fifth career victory to secure his seat, and his future, with Mercedes.
If he wins, and overhauls Verstappen in the drivers’ title race, he may in so doing allow the Dutchman, also 27, to trigger an exit clause in his Red Bull contract, which runs to 2028.
It is widely believed that if Verstappen is not in the top three in the championship at the end of July – with a realistic chance of claiming a fifth crown – he can seal a move elsewhere, a prospect given impetus on Wednesday by reports claiming he has already said yes to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.
Ahead of Sunday’s race, Verstappen is third on 155 points, with Russell fourth on 146.
According to Sky Sport Italia, Verstappen and Wolff have held “concrete negotiations” which resulted in the Dutchman giving his consent. No details were given and the story was not confirmed.