Russell: In Formula 1 everyone has their exit clauses

Currently fourth in the 2025 F1 standings after four races and enjoying a strong start to his fourth campaign with former champions Mercedes, Russell will be out of contract at the end of the season.

Mercedes expressed interest in four-time F1 world champion Max Verstappen last year and, while Wolff has remained supportive of his current line-up, speculation has intensified amid Red Bull’s recent struggles.

“Myself and Toto, we talk almost daily,” said Russell, who is partnered by 18-year-old Italian rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli following the departure of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

“So it’s not like discussions have just started. Discussions are constantly ongoing, but we’ve never done a deal before June. He’s never done a deal with anyone prior to June, and I don’t think my situation is abnormal. I think the situation of everyone else signing long-term deals was abnormal," explained Russell.

“Everyone has their exit clauses, so what you see publicised about long-term contracts—teams have exit clauses, and drivers have exit clauses. If you're not performing, those teams will find a way to get rid of their drivers. So I'm in a very happy and content position, and performance is my currency," insisted Russell.

Red Bull parted company with underperforming Sergio Perez at the end of last season, despite the Mexican having signed a new contract only months earlier.

Russell finished second in Bahrain last weekend after starting the season with two third-place finishes and a fifth in Japan. He has scored 63 of the team’s 93 points so far.

“I feel like I'm performing well. From the mid-to-end of last year to this point has been consistently strong, and I know personally what I’m capable of. I don’t really need to prove that to anyone else,” ventured Russell.