Russell says his Mercedes seat was never in doubt

George Russell said his place at Mercedes never felt under threat, according to reports carried by Formula 1 and Crash.net.

Crash.net linked Russell's comments to Max Verstappen's new Formula 1 deal. Verstappen will stay with Red Bull through the end of the 2030 season.

Taken together, the reports indicate Russell was calm about his Mercedes situation while Verstappen's long-term future at Red Bull was confirmed.