Mercedes announced on Wednesday that it has retained the current Formula 1 drivers, consisting of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, for the 2026 season.
There has been no doubt in recent weeks about the immediate future of the two drivers, with team boss Toto Wolff stating that they would remain the drivers even though contract details were still to be worked out. However, after a year in which Mercedes showed clear interest in Max Verstappen, the announcement of the retained line-up states that both Russell and Antonelli are only confirmed for another year at this stage.
“Confirming our driver line-up was always a matter of when, not if,” said Wolff. “We wanted to take our time, get the negotiations right and make sure everyone, on all sides, was happy. I’m glad we did that. George and Kimi have proven to be a strong combination and we’re excited to continue our journey together.
“Our focus now is on the final six races of the year as we fight for second place among the constructors, and on to 2026 and a new era in F1.”
Russell has had an impressive season so far, winning two races, including last time out in Singapore, and currently sits fourth in the Drivers’ Championship. The British driver – who is managed by Mercedes and had little flexibility to move elsewhere – previously stated that he wanted to ensure the details of his new contract were ironed out.
“I’m really proud that we can continue our journey together,” said Russell. “Next year will be my 10th since signing for Mercedes in 2017. It has been a long and successful partnership with the team so far and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead, especially as we embark on one of the biggest regulatory changes in the history of the sport next year.
“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.”
For Antonelli, the confirmation comes after an up-and-down rookie year so far, but the Italian has one podium to his name and has finished in the top five in each of the past two races.
“I’m super excited to continue with the team,” said Antonelli. “I have learned so much in my first season in F1, both in the good moments and in the more challenging moments. All of them have made me stronger, not only as a driver but also as a teammate. I would like to thank Toto and everyone at Brackley and Brixworth for their continued support and confidence in me.”
“Our focus now is to finish strong this year and secure second place in the Constructors’ Championship before turning our full attention to 2026. There is still a lot to achieve in the last six races and we will give it our all.”
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