Rumor: George Russell has 10-year contract with Mercedes F1

There were even rumors earlier this month that Red Bull were keeping an eye on Russell’s situation.

But Dr. Helmut Marko has denied any approach was even considered, insisting Russell is already tied down to a 10-year contract with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff.

When asked whether there was ever a consideration of trying to bring Russell to Red Bull, Marko told Motorsport-total: “No. He has a ten-year contract with Toto Wolff. He is a Mercedes Junior.

“We were looking for an interim solution for a year. Perez is the much better option.”

When pressed further, Marko made it clear that stealing Russell away from Mercedes was never viable.

“Russell is a Mercedes junior. You don’t have to put a false label on it,” he added.