Autobayng News Team
Mercedes have officially confirmed George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli will continue to drive for them in 2026.
Following months of speculation that Mercedes were attempting to lure Max Verstappen away from Red Bull to complete a blockbuster move to their Brackley-based team, the multiple world championship winning manufacturer has formally announced that they will retain the services of 27-year-old Russell into next season and beyond. Mercedes has not given any indication how long Russell’s new contract lasts.
The team also announced Antonelli will remain with them for a second season following his debut this year. Antonelli, 19, scored his best finish to date with third place in the Canadian Grand Prix. Russell won the race and scored his second victory of the season earlier this month in Singapore.
Team principal and co-owner Toto Wolff said: “confirming our driver line-up was always just a matter of ‘when’, not ‘if’.”
“We wanted to take our time, handle the negotiations properly and make sure everyone, on all sides, was happy,” he 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.”
Russell has enjoyed a long relationship with Mercedes, dating back to January 2017 when he was first signed as a member of the manufacturer’s junior driver programme. After winning that year’s GP3 championship and winning the Formula 2 championship at his first attempt, Russell entered Formula 1 with Williams in 2019.
He spent three seasons with Williams before being called up to join Mercedes alongside Lewis Hamilton for the 2022 season. Russell finished fourth in the championship that year and is on course to repeat that result, his highest finishing position, this season.
Mercedes’ announcement leaves five race seats available on the 2026 F1 grid.
View the current list of 2026 F1 drivers and teams
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