Wolff hits out at Horner after Red Bull's flirting with Russell
Reflecting on Christian Horner's comments regarding George Russell, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff dismissed any speculation, claiming that Red Bull's team principal is only trying to "stir the s- up".
Although Red Bull extended Sergio Perez's contract for 2025, the Mexican has been under the spotlight due to his low-key performances in recent months. The six-time F1 race winner started the season with four podium finished in the opening five races, but he endured a sudden drop in performance afterwards.
Asked to comment on Red Bull's plans regarding its driver line-up for the coming season, Horner stated that the Milton Keynes-based outfit might promote from within, with F2 driver Isack Hadjar considered as a possible replacement for Perez. However, the Briton also admitted that Red Bull might look outside its pool of drivers, with Mercedes driver George Russell also being part of the consideration given the fact that he will become available next year.
“We just want to take time to consider what those options look like for the future,” Horner told Sky Sports. “And we’re not afraid to go out of the pool (of Red Bull drivers). You know, George Russell is out of contract at the end of next year. It would be foolish not to take that into consideration.”
However, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff dismissed the speculation, confirming that the Brackley-based outfit is delighted with Russell's performance and intends to keep the Briton for the future.
“Christian is always trying to stir the s— up. I think he’s just always stirring the s— up. It’s part of the game. George is a Mercedes driver, has been forever, and hopefully will be forever. We have a long contract with him.”
“I don’t flirt outside. I’ve not entertained any discussions with any drivers when giving it all from the team to make it a success. This is why all of our focus in the team is on George and Kimi, and that’s what I also said. There’s no discussion, there’s no second thoughts about what we are doing in 2026, because now it’s about 2024 and 2025.”
