With the definition of the partnership in the German team, there are only four places left to close next year’s grid: Max Verstappen’s partner at Red Bull, two at Racing Bulls and the other at Alpine
The put an end to speculation that it could change its drivers for the 2026 season by making official, this Wednesday (15), the renewal with the British and the Italian. Head of the team, assured that they never thought about changes and praised the partnership: “they proved to be a strong duo.” “It’s official. We are very happy to confirm that George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will continue as drivers for the team until 2026”, announced Mercedes on its social networks, guaranteeing the two drivers revealed in the team and leaving the grid for next year with only four open places. The confirmation of the agreement with the Brit defined the maintenance of the duo, to the delight of Toto Wolff. “Confirmation of our driver duo has always been a question of when, not if,” said the manager.
“We wanted to take our time, conduct the negotiations properly and make sure everyone on all sides was happy,” he continued. “I’m glad we did it. George and Kimi have proven to be a strong duo and we’re excited to continue our journey together,” said Wolff. “Our focus now is on the last six races of the year, as we fight for second place in the Constructors’ Championship, and head towards 2026, a new era in Formula 1.”
A newcomer to the sport, Antonelli started the season with ups and downs and had his presence for 2026 threatened. But he grew a lot in the last races – he took pole in Miami – and stopped being a ‘problem’. Russell was already considered for new teams, but opted for renewal. “I’m very proud to continue our journey together. Next year will mark my 10th anniversary since signing with Mercedes in 2017. It’s been a long and successful partnership with the team so far and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for us, especially as we embark on one of the biggest regulatory changes in the history of the sport next year,” said Russell.
Fourth place overall, with 237 points, the Brit made a point of highlighting his great year. “We are all extremely focused on making this a success and, for me personally, continuing what has been my strongest season in Formula 1 so far,” he highlighted.
No less excited, Antonelli also thanked Mercedes for the vote of confidence. “I’m super excited to continue with the team. I learned a lot in my first season in Formula 1, both in the good moments and the most challenging”, he admitted. “All of this has made me stronger, not just as a driver but also as a teammate. I want to thank Toto and everyone at Brackley and Brixworth for their continued support and faith in me.”
With the definition of the partnership at Mercedes, there are only four confirmations left for the closure of the 2026 grid: Max Verstappen’s partner at Red Bull, two at Racing Bulls and the other at Alpine. Isack Hadjar is the main candidate to form a partnership with the four-time Dutch champion, while Red Bull’s sister team is targeting Arvid Lindblad, from Formula 2, which would promote a fight between the current Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson for the remaining place. Also a rookie, Franco Colapinto could be kept at Alpine alongside Pierre Gasly.
*With information from Estadão Conteúdo
Published by Fernando Dias
