As Formula 1 shifts from Bahrain to Saudi Arabia, speculation suggests George Russell's place at Mercedes is secure.
The 27-year-old has delivered some of the most consistent performances of 2025, even as his contract nears its end. While some speculated Toto Wolff was holding out for a frustrated Max Verstappen, reports now indicate Mercedes has offered Russell a two-year deal for 2026 and 2027, with a possible 2028 extension.
Sky Italia claimed the package could reach 30 million euros annually.
"Toto Wolff would like to close the deal as soon as possible," the broadcaster reported.
Auto Motor und Sport awarded only two drivers a perfect 10/10 in Bahrain: race winner Oscar Piastri and Russell, whom it praised for a "masterpiece" in managing technical issues to finish ahead of Lando Norris.
"I'm almost speechless about his performance," Wolff said. "There was so much talk about Lewis Hamilton who left us to go to Ferrari, about Kimi (Antonelli) who arrived as the youngster with high potential, but little was said about George. I have always said that is not fair, because he is one of the best drivers around."
Should Wolff still pursue Verstappen, he could theoretically loan 18-year-old Antonelli elsewhere. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali suggested Ferrari as an ideal fit.
"Italy needs a driver who, especially in today's world, represents a point of reference for the young people," he told Italian radio Rai.
"Before comparing him to some champion, I think it's right to wait a little, but the certainty is that he will become a protagonist in our world. So an Italian in an Italian car would be really nice, but I think Toto Wolff doesn't agree at the moment."
