The German team renewed its two drivers for 2026, and the margin for the Argentine in Formula 1 is reduced
Mercedes has officially announced George Russell's contract renewal and Kimi Antonelli's continuity for the 2026 season of Formula 1, a decision that finalizes much of the grid and leaves only four seats available in the main teams. The announcement was made ahead of the United States Grand Prix, amid a key stage of driver market decisions.
The German team, eight-time world constructors' champion, has decided to consolidate its project with two drivers who emerged from its own young talent program. Russell, who has been part of Mercedes since 2017 and joined the main team in 2022 after his time at Williams, celebrated the agreement: "I'm very proud to continue our journey together. It's been a very long and successful partnership, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for us," he said.
Russell, who has five Grand Prix victories, is experiencing one of the best moments of his career and will be a key piece in the new cycle that will begin with the regulatory change in 2026, when F1 will introduce more sustainable engines and deep aerodynamic modifications.
His teammate, Italian driver Kimi Antonelli, was promoted to a starting seat this year after standing out as one of the great promises in motorsport. In his debut season, he achieved the sprint pole in Miami and a historic podium in Canada, becoming the youngest driver to finish among the top three in the history of the category.
"I've learned a lot in my first season, both in the good moments and the most challenging ones," said the 19-year-old. "Our goal now is to finish this year strong and secure second place in the Constructors' Championship before focusing on 2026."
Mercedes's announcement makes it clear that the team's structure is already set until 2026, and with that, the alternatives are reduced for drivers who aspire to a promotion or a change of team, including Franco Colapinto. The last seats that are still vacant are: Red Bull (1), Racing Bulls (2), and Alpine (1).
The Argentine driver, who has not yet been confirmed by the French team, is watching as the market is being defined quickly. With almost all team seats confirmed, his margin for maneuver is increasingly limited. However, everything seems to indicate that he will continue as a starting driver in his current team, which trusts in his potential and in the learning he has shown during the year.