'Is Toto Wolff the hidden mastermind behind George Russell’s success, or the unseen roadblock?'
But here's where it gets controversial… The former Mercedes chief executive might just be the very thing that’s keeping Russell from signing a deal for 2026.
Ralf Schumacher, the six‑time Formula 1 world champion, claims that the whispers in the paddock are no longer just idle chatter. “Rumour has it,” he told Sky Germany’s Backstage Boxengasse podcast after the Singapore Grand Prix, “George Russell no longer wants Toto Wolff in his ear as his advisor.” According to Schumacher, a settlement was reached that day between Russell and Wolff – a deal that the team hasn’t announced yet, leaving Russell still out of contract at the end of the season.
Russell’s 2025 season – a breakout year or a ticking contract bomb?
George Russell has arguably delivered his best performance yet: wins in Canada and Singapore, a podium haul that has fans dreaming of a championship. Yet, the driver remains contract‑free, with 2026 still up in the air. During the summer, he hinted that the negotiations between Mercedes and teammate Max Verstappen were a factor in his own contract status. Verstappen has since re‑affirmed his stay at Red Bull, but Russell’s deal remains unsigned.
Unrest in the paddock
Schumacher said the tension was still palpable during the Singapore race. He recalled that Wolff abruptly cancelled a pre‑qualifying interview with the drivers, a move he suspects was tied to the strained relationship. “On Sunday he told us that both drivers are definitely with Mercedes,” Schumacher explained. “So it wasn’t about negotiating on Saturday; it was that Russell wasn’t in a good mood.” The implication? Something significant was agreed upon, or perhaps something fell apart.
A unique management setup
Most Formula 1 racers work with managers external to their teams. Russell is an exception: while he has his own manager, Harry Soden, his career is also overseen by Mercedes and Wolff as a product of the club’s junior programme. “Rumour has it that Russell no longer wants Toto or, in any form, Toto as an advisor,” Schumacher said. “I think the drama that unfolded when Mercedes flirted with Verstappen really left a dent.”
But the public picture says otherwise
From the outside, there’s no obvious rift. Wolff has repeatedly praised Russell’s performance, even after the chaotic 2023 Singapore race where Russell crashed while chasing the win. “We’ve seen moments in the past where George was not in control, but this year he’s stepped up,” Wolff told the media. “He’s been formidable, no mistakes that I’ve seen.” He also noted that contract discussions can be protracted, “It’s about the details, not the big headline topics.”
The big question
With the season still on, will Russell keep Wolff as his mentor, or will he chart a new path? Will Mercedes finally lock down a new contract or let the star driver drift into Red Bull territory? The stakes are higher than ever.
What do you think? Is Toto Wolff a secret weapon or an obstacle in Russell’s career? Drop your thoughts below and let’s get the conversation rolling!
