Former Formula One champion Nico Rosberg has shed light on the contract negotiation methods employed by Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, describing how the Austrian executive deliberately makes himself unreachable during discussions with drivers.
The 2016 world champion disclosed these tactics whilst George Russell currently finds himself without a renewed Mercedes deal for next season.
Russell's team-mate Kimi Antonelli is in an identical position, with both drivers' contracts expiring at year's end.
Wolff had reportedly been considering his options whilst monitoring Max Verstappen's potential availability. However, the Dutch driver appears content to continue with Red Bull, suggesting both Mercedes seats will likely see their current occupants retained
Nico Rosberg has revealed the struggles of negotiating with Toto Wolff
| GettyRosberg revealed the specific methods Wolff employs during contract discussions. "It's horrible negotiating with Toto because his tactic is to just disappear," the German explained.
"So if you're George now trying to get hold of him, Toto's already gone. He even knows how to avoid the blue ticks. As soon as your message pops up on his screen, he'll only read the first few words and won't even open it properly."
Rosberg recalled experiencing these same tactics during his Mercedes tenure. "I remember that well from my time it was always his style: vanish, don't reply, be unreachable. And that's horrible, because it gives you no chance."
Russell's position appears particularly frustrating given his impressive contributions to Mercedes this campaign. The British driver has accumulated 157 points from the team's total of 220, securing one victory and four podium finishes.
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George Russell is still without a contract for 2026
| GettyDespite these achievements and regular praise from Wolff in public forums, Russell remains without renewed terms. The 27-year-old's strong performances have highlighted the disconnect between his on-track success and the stalled contract negotiations.
This uncertainty comes at a crucial juncture in Russell's career, as he continues to establish himself as Mercedes' leading driver whilst awaiting clarity on his future with the Silver Arrows beyond the current season.
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Russell addressed the timeline for his contract renewal whilst speaking before the Belgian Grand Prix. "The intention was always pre-summer break, because that's just people go into summer and you want to get something sorted," he stated.
The British driver expressed doubt about meeting this deadline. "Realistically, is that going to be the case? I don't know," he said. "There is still no contract on the table."
Toto Wolff appears to be making it dificult to sort a contract for George Russell
| PA ImagesRussell explained that finalising terms within a fortnight seemed improbable, noting the need to examine details thoroughly given Formula One's rapid evolution. "You need to go through everything with a fine-tooth comb to make sure it's all okay."
He maintained a philosophical stance about the situation. "Toto and the team will decide what they wish to do, and I will be in a position of reacting to what they wish to do."