Summer break is over, and Mercedes has yet to announce drivers for 2026. Mercedes has an issue and is at a critical crossroads. Three world-class drivers are vying for two seats. George Russell wants a multi-year contract. Kimi Antonelli is viewed as a future world champion. Max Verstappen has been rumored for the seat all season.

I have zero sources saying this, so take this as my opinion. My belief is that Mercedes is dumping Russell for Verstappen in 2026. I think they are looking over his contract and attempting to find a way for him to legally break it. If they can’t, I believe they will pay the almost $100 million fine to buy him out.

I believe this is because any other team would have signed Russell already. Something is holding up the deal. If Verstappen were out of contention, the deal would already be done. They aren’t getting rid of Kimi, so Russell is the obvious choice.

Image Sourced via Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team on X