Mercedes confirms Russell and Antonelli for 2026

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff confirmed after the Dutch Grand Prix that George Russell and rookie Kimi Antonelli will remain the Silver Arrows driver pairing for the 2026 Formula 1 season, ending weeks of speculation about the team’s plans. Wolff told reporters at Zandvoort that the lineup is effectively settled, though finer contractual details for Russell are still being finalised and an official, high‑profile announcement is not expected before the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.

Wolff said there is no drama in the delays, characterising them as administrative and logistical adjustments rather than open negotiations. With Russell, the focus is on “optimis[ing] some of the travelling and the marketing days, how many hours we’re putting in,” Wolff said, noting the team wants to protect on‑track performance by rebalancing off‑track commitments. Russell himself told media ahead of the Dutch race that he paused talks over the summer to prioritise a break and was not feeling rushed. Team sources indicate Antonelli’s deal is likely to have been extended, while Russell’s paperwork remains under final review.

The decision to stick with Russell and Antonelli follows the wider market...