George Russell is the latest name linked to Ferrari as the Formula 1 rumour mill starts to heat up again, even though he just signed a new contract with Mercedes.
According to reports from Italy, Ferrari are considering a move for the British driver despite his recent commitment to the Silver Arrows.
Russell has seen his reputation grow this year after what has been his best season yet. He currently sits fourth in the standings with two wins and eight podiums, so it’s no surprise that Ferrari have taken an interest. And there’s a bit more going on behind the scenes that could make such a move possible.
While Russell’s new deal only locks him in for 2026, it is believed he has an exit clause tied to Mercedes’ ongoing interest in Max Verstappen. Over at Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton isn’t expected to be offered a new contract either, which means there could be an opening by 2027.
While joining Ferrari sounds appealing on paper, recent events have shown why Russell might want to think twice before making any move. The current season alone should serve as enough of a warning about potential pitfalls within Maranello.
Fred Vasseur’s handling of Ferrari’s 2025 development raises doubts over potential Russell move
Ferrari have struggled to live up to expectations in 2025, failing to win a race with just four rounds remaining. Much was expected after Lewis Hamilton joined Charles Leclerc, but the team have failed to get things right on and off the track.
The SF-25 has proven difficult to set up, with both drivers battling ride height issues throughout the year. Leclerc and Hamilton pushed for aerodynamic upgrades, but Fred Vasseur insisted that changes to the rear suspension would address their concerns.
Why George Russell should steer clear of Ferrari
It didn’t work out, and now Ferrari are left in a frustrating spot, turning their attention to 2026 with a team that seems more divided than ever. Those internal issues shouldn’t be appealing for someone like Russell.
He’s thriving at Mercedes, where he’s clearly established as the lead driver. There’s a real sense of stability and direction around him right now.
If he were to join Ferrari in 2027, replacing Hamilton, it is hard to imagine him overtaking Leclerc as team leader. Leclerc’s long-standing presence and reputation within the team make that role nearly untouchable. It wouldn’t make sense for Russell to give up his current position just to become second in line at another top outfit.
If you look at what’s happening in Brackley compared to Maranello, all signs point to Russell being better off staying right where he is.
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This year should serve as a warning sign for Russell when considering whether or not to entertain joining Ferrari if they come knocking again in 2027. That said, there is plenty of time before then for things to change in Maranello ahead of another massive rule change.
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The Scuderia have already turned their attention towards those regulations – something that could help them move up the grid and get them fighting back at the front again. However nobody truly knows how things will play out until cars hit track in Bahrain next March – but current speculation still points towards Mercedes being favourites early on.
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