George Russell and Valtteri Bottas put Mercedes on notice as they revealed their contract aspirations going forward.
Both drivers are out of contract at their respective teams after this year and the Finn is being edged toward the exit door at Mercedes by some, although he likely still has a very strong ally in Lewis Hamilton, who looks set to stay on.
As for Russell, he too is on the market with his deal at Williams due to expire and the Briton is wanting security when it comes to committing his future.
“I definitely think in the position I am currently being a free agent as such going into next year is a good position to be in but I think stability and longevity is important,” said Russell via MotorsportWeek ahead of this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix.
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“I think it’s so clear with people moving around recently how difficult it is to jump in and adapt to a new team.
“Wherever I find myself next year let’s say, I’d like it to be for a couple of years as it’s so important to have that consistency to be able to grow and progress.”
As for Bottas, he is simply wanting clarity sooner rather than later on whether Mercedes will stand by him again.
“Honestly, it’s always better earlier,” he said of signing. “I’ve had contracts signed early, I’ve had contracts too late, that it almost becomes a distraction.
“To be honest, I haven’t really thought about it yet and that’s an honest answer. I’m really just focusing on these races now and that moment when we start to talk it will come eventually.
“For sure about my future, yes, I think August break is normally a good deadline, but to be honest, I just want to win races, that’s the only thing on my mind at the moment.”