Formula 1: Mercedes to continue with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli in 2026

F1 is heading for its biggest rule change yet next season with new rules for both chassis and engine, and it remains to be seen which team will be in the best position.

Russell, who won two races in 2025 and finished fourth in the drivers’ championship with six races remaining, said: “I’m really proud to continue our journey together. Next year I’ll celebrate 10 years since signing with Mercedes in 2017.

“It’s been a very long and successful partnership with the team so far and I can’t wait to see what’s in store, especially as we start making changes to the rules.”

“We are all incredibly focused on achieving this and building on what, for me personally, is the strongest season to date in F1.”

Antonelli will enter his second season replacing Lewis Hamilton in the team after the seven-time champion moved to Ferrari.

The 19-year-old Italian achieved pole position in the sprint race in Miami in May and completed his first podium finish in Canada in June; Russell got his first win of the season.

However, Antonelli had an up-and-down year and a series of mistakes in the European season led Wolff to describe his performance at the Italian Grand Prix as “inadequate”.

He has since finished fourth and fifth at the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grand Prix.

Antonelli admitted he was under pressure at times during his rookie season, but the team believes in his potential as a future winner.

He said: “I’m very excited to continue with the team. I’ve learned a lot in my first season in F1, both in the good moments and the more challenging ones.”

“All of this has made me stronger, not only as a driver but also as a teammate. I want to thank Toto and everyone at Brackley and Brixworth for their continued support and belief in me.”