Mercedes announced on Wednesday that it will maintain its current F1 driver line-up of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for the 2026 season.
In recent weeks, there has been no question about the immediate futures of the two drivers, with team principal Toto Wolff stating that they will remain drivers, although contract details have not yet been worked out. However, following a year in which Mercedes showed clear interest in Max Verstappen, the retained line-up announcement states that Russell and Antonelli are both confirmed for only one more year at this stage.
“It was always a matter of when to confirm the driver lineup,” Wolff said. “We wanted to take the time to get the negotiations right and make sure all parties on both sides were satisfied. We’re glad we were able to do that. George and Kimi have proven to be a strong pair and we’re excited to continue their journey together.”
“We are now focused on the final six races of the year as we battle for second place in the constructors’ championship and look forward to 2026 and a new era in F1.”
Russell has had an impressive season so far, winning two races, including the last race in Singapore, and is currently fourth in the drivers’ championship. The British driver is managed by Mercedes and has had little flexibility to explore a move elsewhere, but has previously said he wants to focus on the details of a new contract.
“I’m really proud to continue this journey with you,” Russell said. “Next year will be my 10th year since signing with Mercedes in 2017. It has been a long and successful partnership with the team so far and I am looking forward to what the future holds, especially as next year we embark on the biggest regulation changes in the history of the sport.”
“We are all incredibly focused on making this a success and for me personally building on our strongest season in F1 to date.”
The recognition comes after a rocky rookie year for Antonelli, but the Italian has scored one podium and finished in the top five in each of the last two races.
“I’m very excited to continue with the team,” Antonelli said. “My first season in F1 has taught me so much, both good times and more difficult times. All of it has made me stronger, not only as a driver, but also as a teammate. I would like to thank Toto and everyone at Brackley and Brixworth for their continued support and faith in me.”
“Our focus now is to finish this year on a high and secure second place in the Constructors’ Championship, and then turn our full attention to 2026. We still have a lot to achieve with six races left, so we will give it our all.”