Austin: Mercedes has announced it will retain George Russell and Kimi Antonelli as its drivers for the 2026 F1 season, confirming one of the sport’s least surprising moves ahead of this weekend’s United States Grand Prix. The announcement comes 10 days after Russell’s dominant win in Singapore and cements Mercedes’ plans for F1’s next major rules overhaul.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the deal locks in Mercedes’ future as F1 prepares for sweeping technical changes in 2026, which will see new chassis and engine regulations aimed at greater efficiency and sustainability. Russell, the only driver outside Red Bull and McLaren to win this season, sits fourth on the standings with six races remaining. His two victories have helped Mercedes stay in contention for second in the Constructors’ Championship. The Briton’s contract length was not disclosed, though the team said both drivers will continue “into 2026.”
“I’m really proud to be continuing our journey together,” Russell said. “Next year will mark my tenth since I first signed with Mercedes back in 2017. It’s been a long and successful partnership so far, and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead, especially with the new regulations.”
Wolff had explored the possibility of signing four-time world champion Max Verstappen earlier this year, but the Dutchman opted to stay with Red Bull. That decision effectively guaranteed Russell’s renewal, though final terms reportedly took weeks to settle. Antonelli, 19, will enter his second season with the team after replacing Lewis Hamilton, who joined Ferrari this year. The Italian has shown flashes of promise, taking sprint pole in Miami and scoring his first podium in Canada, where Russell also won.
However, the Italian endured a rough mid-season stretch that prompted Wolff to call his performance at Monza “underwhelming.” The youngster rebounded with solid finishes in Baku and Singapore and remains a key part of Mercedes’ long-term plans. “I’m super excited to be continuing with the team,” Antonelli said. “I’ve learned so much in my first season in F1, both in the good moments and the challenging ones. Those have made me stronger as a driver and as a team-mate. I want to thank Toto and everyone at Brackley and Brixworth for their continued faith in me.”
Mercedes has not won a championship since 2021, but Wolff said the current pairing provides the right balance of experience and youthful potential as the sport heads into its next era. “Our focus now is on the final six races of this season and building momentum into 2026,” Wolff said. “It’s an exciting time for everyone at Mercedes and for the future of F1.”