George Russell has responded to “interesting” rumours linking Max Verstappen with a future role at Mercedes, potentially replacing him.

The Briton is under contract until the end of next season and would therefore need a new deal to stay with the Silver Arrows under new power unit regulations.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has made no secret of his desire to sign Verstappen and work with the Dutchman, despite being happy with the new pairing of Russell and Kimi Antonelli.

However, former Mercedes driver and 2016 F1 world champion Nico Rosberg expressed his concerns about Russell during the recent Italian Grand Prix.

Rosberg is concerned that next year could see Russell and Antonelli battle it out, with Verstappen joining in 2026.

With Antonelli being Mercedes’ rookie and teenage star, the Silver Arrows may not want to lose the Italian to a rival team.

The German believes Russell is under pressure to perform better next year, although the 26-year-old is not concerned about the rumours circulating.

“To be honest, we haven’t discussed it,” Russell told the media.

“I’ve been with this team for a very long time. I’m managed by Mercedes and we’ve always said we’ll be together indefinitely.

“There’s been a lot of conversations that are interesting to read, but from my side, I’m not focused on any of that.

“I’m just focused on driving.”