Toto Wolff has effectively confirmed that Mercedes will continue with George Russell and Kimian Tonelli in the 2026 F1 season.
Following the Dutch Grand Prix, Wolf told media including Crash.NET that Russell and Antonelli will remain Mercedes drivers next year. However, details about Russell’s contract extension are still finalized.
Mercedes had expressed interest in signing Max Verstappen, but the four-time world champion confirmed that he would stay in Red Bull in 2026 before summer vacation, effectively indiscriminate conclusion that Russell and Antonelli would remain in the silver arrow.
“We’re doing this so we always say there’s no big news. Of course we’re continuing to do both of them,” Wolf said.
“There are a few things George wants to optimize how many hours we spend on travel and marketing days. He is an experienced driver and it is always important for us to talk about it.
“We want to have the best performance of our drivers. I think we both put a considerable strain on our marketing and media activities. This is how we readjust.
Wolf has also ruled out an official announcement from Mercedes ahead of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza next weekend.
“Are there any announcements at Monza? No,” Wolf added. “But I don’t think it’s going to be a big announcement. It’s just going to put your head up to you and say we’ve signed the contract.”
Totowolf defends F1 rookie Kimi Antoneri
Antoneri ruined both his and Leclair’s races
Antoneri went through another difficult weekend at Zandvort as he wiped out Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and scored two separate time penalties, down from sixth in classification on the 16th.
However, Wolf reiterated his absolute belief in the potential of an Italian teenager, claiming that Antonelli’s roller coaster rookie campaign was “absolutely expected.”
“When we gave him the opportunity, it said that it would give him a year of learning. And there will be moments when we tear our hair and there will be other moments of glow,” Wolff explained.
“I think this weekend will summarise that.”
Wolff added:
“After he was in free air, he was behind the fastest car behind McLaren, caught up and was involved again in the accident, which unfortunately meant the end of Charles’ race.
“But we are clearly hoping he will go on the move, up and down, and that is absolutely hoping for this season, and everything about that day will be learning next year.
“We’re not fighting for the constructor championship. Of course, P2 and P3 (in rankings) are at stake, but this is less relevant than when it’s important to score points.
“You always want fewer humps and bumps than today because the swing is huge, but that’s there. It needs to be peeled like an artichoke with gold at the end. It’s there and we have no doubt.
“My 100% belief is with him in the long run, and that’s just a part of learning.”