Mercedes Confirms Russell and Antonelli for 2026: Future Secured in F1

George Russell Secures His Future with Mercedes Until 2026

George Russell’s wait to secure his contract for 2026 is over. Mercedes confirmed that the British driver will continue with the team alongside Kimi Antonelli next season. The announcement, expected for weeks, comes after a summer of speculation about Russell’s future, while Mercedes explored options with champion Max Verstappen. Verstappen confirmed his stay at Red Bull at the end of July, at which time Mercedes boss Toto Wolff announced the continuity of Russell and Antonelli. In recent weeks, Russell mentioned that the final details of his contract were delaying the confirmation, but he made clear his commitment to Mercedes for next season. The duration of the agreements with both drivers was not revealed in the announcement.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell have extended their contracts for 2026.

Confirming our driver lineup was always a question of when, not if,” commented Wolff. “We wanted to take our time, manage the negotiations properly and make sure everyone, on all sides, was happy.

Toto Wolff

Russell, who first signed with Mercedes as a junior driver in 2017 and is still managed by the team, including Wolff, also expressed his satisfaction. Russell debuted with Mercedes as a substitute for Lewis Hamilton at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, before joining the team full-time in 2022. His rise coincided with Mercedes’ decline in performance, limiting him to five victories in the last four seasons. Mercedes is considered one of the favorites to capitalize on the regulation change next year, which will include a new engine formula and significant changes to the cars.

I am very proud to continue our journey together,” said Russell. “Next year will mark my tenth anniversary since I signed with Mercedes in 2017.

George Russell

Antonelli joined Mercedes as a rookie this year, after seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton decided to leave the team to join Ferrari at the end of 2024.

I’m super excited to continue with the team,” he stated. “I’ve learned a lot in my first season in F1, both in the good times and in the more challenging ones.

Kimi Antonelli