George Russell could be looking at a nightmare sequence of events in 2025 (Image: Getty Images)
Major changes are looming at Mercedes as is set to bid farewell to in 2025. After three seasons playing second fiddle to one of the greatest talents in history, Russell is poised to step up as No. 1 for the Silver Arrows next season.
Hamilton’s anticipated switch to will see Kimi Antonelli fill his shoes at , casting a shadow of uncertainty as the 18-year-old succeeds such an experienced player. If the Brackley-based team can construct a car capable of consistently competing, the future could be bright for and his crew.
However, there’s a potential chain of events that could spell disaster for Russell next year. The British driver has already surpassed his personal best with two victories this season, but he’ll need to up his game to put in the title race next term.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our
No Russell renewal
Russell’s long-term future remains uncertain after averaging one race win per season with , casting doubt on whether he has truly convinced the team’s hierarchy. Despite him now being the senior starter and the arrival of Antonelli, chiefs have not rushed to secure his services.
One might have thought the former F1 kingpins would be eager to tie down the services of their more seasoned servant. After all, the 2025 season is currently set to start with both drivers on single-season terms.
That’s far from ideal in terms of blueprint and suggests the constructor is eager to keep its options open on the driver front, Russell included. Instead, they seem to be eyeing a more established name for 2026, with one rumoured target standing out: .
Max Verstappen remains on Toto Wolff’s radar (Image: Getty Images)
Max Verstappen joins
The prospect of Verstappen joining in 2025 is a concerning scenario for Russell, especially given ‘s open admiration for the four-time world champion. Wolff, 52, acknowledged summer discussions with the Dutchman and didn’t dismiss the possibility of him signing, commenting the percentage “wasn’t zero”.
Verstappen – who is under contract with until 2028 – has teased the idea of leaving early, through retirement or a switch. Amid persistent rumours of a move to , he confirmed this summer that he would remain at for the upcoming season at least.
“I think I’ve said this before. I mean, naturally, of course, people are talking,” he said in June. “But it’s most important just that we have a very competitive car for the future. At the moment, of course, it’s very tight, but we are working very well as a team to try and improve more. And for sure, I said this already with the team, we are working and focusing also on next year to try and be competitive again.”
Kimi Antonelli is Wolff’s latest pet project (Image: DPPI/REX/Shutterstock)
Kimi Antonelli comes of age
From ‘s perspective, being outperformed by a rookie like Antonelli could be condemning. The teenager represents a cost-effective option and his youth, being eight years Russell’s junior, could tip the scales in his favour.
Should Russell fail to excel way beyond his incoming partner next year, his position might be under threat. would likely baulk at paying a premium for a driver who isn’t delivering, particularly when younger talents are showing promise.
Russell may find some solace in an inconsistent 2024 season for Antonelli in Formula 2, suggesting he’s not yet the complete package. However, a strong start for the Italian rookie could further weaken Russell’s negotiation power during a critical period for contract talks.