Russell 'enjoying the curiosity' of Mercedes speculation

George Russell has declared himself 'enjoying the curiosity' as speculation continues to grow with regards to his F1 future and a seat with Mercedes.

As a Mercedes junior, Russell has been linked with a move to the Silver Arrows in place of Valtteri Bottas for next season.

With Russell in the final year of his three-season deal with Williams and Bottas out of contract with Mercedes, leading to strong rumours the Finn is on his way out, a switch appears inevitable.

“Obviously, I’m aware of all of the speculation but I think right now [I’m] just enjoying driving race by race," said Russell.

"Obviously, I want to get my future nailed down at some point but right now I’m just focused on this weekend, the French Grand Prix into Austria.

"The summer break is usually when these things happen. For most people, the summer break is where you sort of get things set in stone.

“So for me, just focused, race by race and [I’m] just enjoying, I guess, the curiosity of what is to come.

“Sometimes it’s exciting not knowing what the future holds.”

Ocon Alpine deal "great for Mercedes"

Like Russell, Esteban Ocon was formerly a Mercedes junior driver and had also been tentatively linked with Bottas' seat.

But on Wednesday ahead of his home race in France this weekend, it was announced Ocon had signed a new three-year deal with Alpine.

Far from seeing this as an obstacle removed, Russell was quick to heap praise on the Frenchman.

“I don’t see it as anything to be honest," added Russell. "Firstly, congrats to Esteban. He deserves that and it’s obviously great for Mercedes as well that one of their drivers has their career set in stone and sorted.

“But no, I haven’t really thought about that. Esteban has obviously been at Renault and Alpine for the last couple of years and with his speed and his nationality and everything, it’s a great fit at Alpine.

“Nothing has crossed my mind other than I’m happy for him and it’s good to see that after a year out as well, that he has got things all stable and settled for the next three and a half years.”

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