Mercedes Confirms Russell & Antonelli for 2026, Eyes Ferrari in Constructors’ Battle
AUSTIN, Texas – Months of speculation ended today as Mercedes officially announced its driver lineup for the 2026 Formula 1 season, retaining both George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. The confirmation came ahead of the United States Grand Prix in Austin, solidifying the teamS commitment to its current pairing as it prepares for a critically important regulation overhaul.
Team Principal toto Wolff stated the decision was ”always just a matter of when, not if,” emphasizing a purposeful approach to negotiations.”We wanted to take our time, handle the negotiations properly and make sure everyone, on all sides, was happy,” Wolff explained. “I’m pleased we have done that. George and Kimi have proved a strong pairing and we’re excited to continue our journey together.Our focus is now on the final six races of the year, as we fight for second in the Constructors’, and onwards to 2026 and a new era in F1.”
This announcement provides crucial stability for Mercedes as the sport enters a period of significant change with the new regulations. Russell, enjoying what many consider his strongest season to date, expressed his pride in continuing with the Silver Arrows.
“I am really proud to be continuing our journey together,” Russell said. “Next year will mark my 10th since I signed with Mercedes back in 2017. It has been such a long and successful partnership with the team so far and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead,particularly as we embark on one of the largest regulation changes in the sport’s history.We are all incredibly focused on making that a success and, for me personally, building on what has been my strongest season in F1 to date.”
Russell’s performance this season has been impressive, securing two Grand Prix victories – including a recent win at the Singapore Grand Prix – and a total of eight podium finishes, matching his career best
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