Mercedes Confirms Russell and Antonelli For 2026: Renewed Formula 1

Attention Formula 1 fanatics! George Russell has secured his place at Mercedes for the 2026 season, ending speculation about his future with the team. The announcement, which had been expected for weeks, confirms Russell’s continuation alongside his teammate, Kimi Antonelli. The news comes after a summer full of rumors about Mercedes’ options, including the current champion, Max Verstappen. Verstappen confirmed his stay at Red Bull at the end of July, at which point Toto Wolff, head of the Mercedes team, announced that they would move forward with Russell and Antonelli.

Confirming our driver lineup was always 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.

Toto Wolff

Russell, who joined Mercedes as a junior driver in 2017, has expressed his pride in continuing his journey with the team. The 2026 season will mark his tenth year since he signed with Mercedes. Antonelli, for his part, joined Mercedes this year. Despite mixed results in his first season in F1, his position for 2026 was never in doubt.

Mercedes’ focus is now on the remaining six races of this year, as they fight for second place in the constructors’ championship, and on preparing for 2026 and the new era of F1.