George Russell identified as potential target for big move in 2026

George Russell could emerge as a surprise contender to race for Audi in 2026. Audi, set to take over the existing Sauber team in the 2026 season, has expressed interest in the British driver, who could potentially take Carlos Sainz's spot in their F1 debut.

Russell, currently driving for Mercedes, signed a two-year contract extension with the German team until 2025. According to Spotrac, the British driver will earn a base salary of $16.5 million (£13.8 million/$18 million). Nevertheless, he is already weighing his options ahead of the big changes next season.

When Lewis Hamilton announced he would join Ferrari in 2025, the F1 grid experienced a complete domino effect. Spanish driver Carlos Sainz was forced to relocate. However, his silence on the matter has left many teams questioning their driver lineups ahead of 2025 and 2026.

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Sainz remains without a confirmed seat for the next season. According to Planet F1, the Spaniard has been linked with teams such as Williams, Alpine, Mercedes, and Audi.

According to the Spanish publication Marca, the Spanish race driver is leaning towards Alpine or Williams, and many believe he will announce his decision ahead of Spa. Which would open options for Russell in the long run.

Reporter Christian Menath claimed on Motorsport Magazine's YouTube that Russell could become a candidate to join Audi if Mercedes decides to pair Verstappen with Antonelli in 2026.

Team principal Toto Wolff plans to promote Andrea Kimi Antonelli to the first team if Verstappen is unattainable. The young 17-year-old Italian sensation could partner up with Russell or potentially force the British driver out to free up the seat.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli is a Mercedes junior driver who is already preparing for the 2025 season. Wolff believes Antonelli deserves the chance, and he will drive the W13 in 2024 to get accustomed to a F1 car.

The young Italian has displayed some great driving in 2024, and the F2 race in Hungary shows how Antonelli is ready for the big step. He sneaked past five opponents and finished first, shaving 8 seconds.

According to Planet F1, Christian Menath believes Audi, who announced the signing of Nico Hulkenberg for Haas in April, will settle for a stop-gap solution for the next season if they are unable to lure Sainz.

"If Carlos Sainz doesn't come, then it could only be a temporary solution because in 2026 the driver market carousel turns again. George Russell and others may be on the market, and you don't want to miss out on them by opting for Bottas or anyone else," shared Menath during the interview.

According to the Mirror, Russell could find himself in "jeopardy" if Verstappen were to join Mercedes. However, Audi is still awaiting Sainz's decision, which leaves Russell uncertain about his future. The F1 musical chairs sure are something!

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