Mercedes has confirmed George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will lead its Formula 1 team into the sport’s significant 2026 regulatory changes, signaling a commitment to stability and a blend of experience and youth.
The German automaker announced on Wednesday that both drivers will remain with the team for the upcoming “new era” of Formula 1 regulations. This move establishes a core lineup ahead of one of the sport’s biggest rule overhauls.
Toto Wolff, Mercedes team CEO, emphasized the strategic importance of the decision. “George and Kimi have proven to be a strong duo,” Wolff stated. He added that confirming the driver lineup was “always just a matter of ‘when,’ not ‘if.'”
Russell, 27, has renewed his contract and will enter his eighth season in Formula 1 in 2026, and his fifth with Mercedes. Antonelli, 19, will continue with the team after making his Formula 1 debut this season.
“Next year will mark my 10th anniversary since signing with Mercedes in 2017,” Russell said. He expressed pride in the team’s long and successful partnership and anticipated the challenges of the new regulations.
Russell also highlighted his current performance, noting he is focused on continuing what has been his “strongest F1 season yet.”
Antonelli shared his enthusiasm for the renewed trust. “I learned a lot in my first F1 season, both in the good moments and the more challenging ones,” the young Italian driver remarked. He thanked Wolff and the teams at Brackley and Brixworth for their support.
Both drivers indicated their immediate focus remains on the current 2025 season. Mercedes is actively competing for second place in the Constructors’ Championship with six races remaining.
It’s official ?? We are delighted to confirm that George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will continue as the team’s driver line-up into 2026
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) October 15, 2025