F1 News: Mercedes Confirm George Russell Contract Extension
Mercedes has confirmed a contract extension for George Russell.
This comes as the Brackley-based squad has also confirmed a contract extension for seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton. Now, both drivers will continue with the team until the end of 2025.
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Russell, who was in contract until the end of 2024, joined the team at the beginning of the 2022 season and proved himself early on by winning the team's only race of the season as well as his first career win at the Brazilian Grand Prix. Despite some struggles this year, the team is clearly very happy with the promising driver.
In the press release from the team, the British driver commented on the extension:
“I have grown up with this team ever since joining as part of the Junior programme back in 2017. It’s my home and it feels fantastic to extend our special relationship through 2025.
“After stepping up to the Mercedes race seat last year, I wanted to reward the trust and belief that Toto and the rest of the team placed in me. Taking my first pole position and race win last year was an unforgettable feeling. More importantly though, it’s been great to work with everybody at Brackley and Brixworth to make progress with our car and push forward our development. Their loyalty, vision and hard work is inspiring.
“We have made some significant steps over the last 18 months and are only getting stronger as a team. I’m excited to help continue to build on that momentum as we progress into 2024 and 2025 as we continue to focus on returning to the very front of the pack.”
Mercedes CEO and team principal Toto Wolff has also commented on Russell's contract. He explained:
”George is a leading light of his generation. He has repaid the faith we showed in him when promoting him to a race seat in 2022. His maiden pole position in Hungary and first Grand Prix victory in São Paulo were standout moments last season. As a driver, he combines razor-sharp speed with the tenacity of a true fighter. But he brings, too, an intelligence and attention to detail that will help him to continue to grow, develop and improve further. He is a natural fit to the team and we are delighted to have extended the relationship for the coming years.”