George Russell could be replaced by Verstappen in 2027 as secret Antonelli clause revealed

George Russell has been told that he could potentially be replaced at Mercedes by Max Verstappen.

Russell, 28, has enjoyed a quick start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, having won the Australian Grand Prix before coming second in the Chinese Grand Prix.

The Brit also won the Sprint in Shanghai and currently leads the standings with 51 points, four ahead of teammate Kimi Antonelli.

Despite his promising start to 2026, it has been reported that Russell could have a fight on his hands to keep his seat at Mercedes.

According to Blick, Russell's contract is a 1+1, meaning the contract will have an extra year if certain criteria are met.

Meanwhile, Antonelli's deal is said to be valid until 2029.

With Verstappen currently struggling at Red Bull, having finished sixth in Australia and retiring during the Chinese Grand Prix, the Dutchman could look to engineer a move away.

It has been widely reported that Verstappen could break out of his Red Bull contract if he finishes third or lower in the final F1 standings.

After two races, Verstappen currently sit in eighth place, 26 points behind third-placed Charles Leclerc.

In addition, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has previously revealed his desire to sign Verstappen.

George Russell is the early favourite to win the F1 world championship. Image: Getty

What has Max Verstappen said about his future?

Speaking recently, Verstappen stated he is not enjoying the Red Bull car.

He said: "I don’t really enjoy driving the car, but I do enjoy working with all the people in the team and from the engine department as well."

The 28-year-old also claimed that he does not want to leave.

Verstappen continued: "I don’t want to leave really. I wish I had a bit more fun for sure, but I’m also doing other stuff that is a lot of fun.

"I get to race the [Nürburgring] Nordschleife. [I] hope in the coming years I can do Spa, hopefully Le Mans. So, I’m combining stuff to find other stuff that I find really fun as well."

He added: "I don’t want to leave, but I also hope of course that it gets. I’ve had discussions with F1 and the FIA and I think we are working towards something, and hopefully that will improve everything."

The 2026 F1 season will return next weekend with the Japanese Grand Prix, taking place around the famous Suzuka Circuit.