George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will be driving in Silver until at least the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 season finale, as Mercedes double down on their rising star and seasoned Brit for the next chapter of their Formula 1 journey.
Mercedes have locked in their Formula 1 driver line-up for the 2026 season, confirming that George Russell will continue alongside teenage sensation Kimi Antonelli. The announcement came midweek ahead of the United States Grand Prix, with both drivers already deep into this season’s campaign.
Russell, now in his 10th year with Mercedes after first joining their junior programme in 2017, is reported to have signed a new multi-year deal, although contract details haven’t been officially disclosed. The 27-year-old has enjoyed a strong run in 2025, with two wins under his belt including a recent victory in Singapore.
Antonelli, at just 19 years old, has already made headlines in his rookie season. The Italian became the youngest podium finisher in Formula 1 history earlier this year, finishing third at the Canadian Grand Prix behind his teammate. His steady rise through the ranks, also via the Mercedes development path, has made him one to watch. His Netflix show is worth a watch too!
With six races still to go this season, Mercedes sit second in the constructors’ standings, trailing McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. But the team remains confident in its long-term vision, with team principal Toto Wolff calling the Russell-Antonelli pairing a key part of Mercedes’ future.
Both drivers will be back on track in Austin for the United States Grand Prix, as the season heads into its final stretch with the championship still wide open.
With a new era of technical regulations set to arrive in 2026, Mercedes will be hoping stability behind the wheel helps drive them back to the front of the pack and potentially set the stage for a title fight that could go all the way to the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
DISCOVER: Mercedes confirm Russell and Antonelli for 2026 Formula 1 season. @abudhabigp
