Mercdes is streaking airborne from the corner, according to all accounts.
Mercedes Set to Renew Contracts with Russell and Antonelli for 2026 Season
In a move that brings clarity to the Formula 1 scene, Mercedes F1 team has announced its intention to renew the contracts of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for the 2026 season. The announcement comes following Max Verstappen's confirmation of his commitment to Red Bull Racing for the same season, effectively ending speculation about a potential move to Mercedes.
For George Russell, the current contract expires at the end of 2025. Despite some conflicts earlier in the year due to the uncertainty surrounding Verstappen's future, Russell has expressed no urgent need for a long-term deal. He is focusing more on the present racing season and trusts Mercedes and team principal Toto Wolff. Russell confirms he is not talking to other teams and believes the likelihood of leaving Mercedes is exceptionally low. He aims to continue as the lead driver well into the new regulations cycle, which Mercedes views as crucial to returning to winning ways.
Kimi Antonelli, a promising rookie managed by Mercedes, is also expected to sign a new deal. The team sees value in offering him a renewal despite a more challenging early script in his F1 career. Rewarding Antonelli with a new contract would show strong backing for his development as the team prepares for key technical regulation changes in 2026.
The current status of negotiations is that Mercedes intends to renew the contracts of both Russell and Antonelli for the 2026 season, with discussions expected or ongoing over the summer break of 2025. No public announcements have been made yet, but Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff prioritizes signing Russell and Antonelli for 2026, with details expected soon.
The flirtation with Verstappen could potentially reignite if Mercedes can compete for the title again. However, for now, the negotiations have stabilized, allowing Mercedes to finalize plans around their current driver lineup.
Meanwhile, Red Bull faces an uncertain future due to the departure of engine partner Honda and recent controversies surrounding the dismissal of team principal Christian Horner. Russell is considering the best interest of both parties for a potential long-term contract, if Mercedes can challenge for the title after major rule changes from next year.
Russell and Antonelli have expressed concerns about their trust in the Silver Arrows, with Russell stating that lapping has become a bigger challenge. If 2026 doesn't go well for Red Bull, Verstappen might consider leaving. For now, both drivers are focusing on the present and the upcoming races, hoping for a turnaround in fortunes for the Mercedes team.
| Driver | Contract Status | Key Points | |-----------------|--------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------| | George Russell | Contract expiring end of 2025; renewal expected | No talks with other teams; trusts Mercedes; no long-term urgency but expected to stay; situational conflict due to Verstappen saga resolved[1][2][3][4][5] | | Kimi Antonelli | Likely renewal during summer 2025 break | New deal seen as support during difficult rookie phase; important for 2026 regulations transition[1][3] | | Max Verstappen | Confirmed to stay at Red Bull for 2026 | Freed Mercedes to focus on Russell and Antonelli[1][4] |
The Commission, despite not yet adopting a decision on the application of Article 93 (2) of the Treaty, finds parallels in the sporting world with Mercedes' decision to renew contracts with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for the 2026 Formula 1 season, akin to a governing body's steady approach in making strategic decisions within a given framework.
Similar to how a sports team would remain resilient amid challenging circumstances, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, despite expressing concerns about their trust in the Silver Arrows, are hopeful for a turnaround in fortunes for the Mercedes team, much like athletes who stay committed to their teams through trying times.
