In a statement that puts to rest months of speculation, Mercedes Formula 1 team boss Toto Wolff confirmed that George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will remain with the team for the 2026 season. Wolff described the announcement as a formality, saying that “confirming our driver line-up was always just a matter of when, not if.”

However, this certainty was far from guaranteed at the start of the season, as rumors swirled around the possibility of Max Verstappen joining Mercedes—a prospect that hung over both Russell and Antonelli throughout much of the year.

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Verstappen Rumors and Mercedes’ 2025 Season

The Max Verstappen transfer speculation was particularly tense for Russell, who has been a key performer for Mercedes since Lewis Hamilton’s departure. While Wolff publicly stated at the Australian Grand Prix that a move for Verstappen was “not on any radar,” insiders recognized this as a strategic comment designed to manage expectations rather than close the door on potential talks.

Mercedes reportedly attempted to sign Verstappen last year but ultimately failed. Conversations resumed earlier this season, prompting concern among the team’s current drivers. At the Austrian Grand Prix in June, Russell openly acknowledged the ongoing discussions, stating: “It’s only normal that conversations with the likes of Verstappen are ongoing. But from my side, if I’m performing as I am, what have I got to be concerned about?”

Russell’s comments came on the heels of a strong victory at the Canadian Grand Prix, highlighting his rising prominence in the sport and reinforcing his status as Mercedes’ emerging team leader.

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Verstappen Steps Back, Russell and Antonelli Secure Seats

By the Hungarian Grand Prix in July, Verstappen effectively ended the transfer rumors himself, declaring that it was “time basically to stop all the rumours.” While relief for Russell and Antonelli was evident, the saga had already created tension, particularly for Russell, who acknowledged in interviews that the uncertainty had been a source of stress.

He explained that while Mercedes managed his career and employment, the past months had involved delicate negotiations, stating: “We’ve been in a bit of a unique situation for the last few months. I don’t have huge power in this agreement… it’s my job to perform and reduce that risk.”

Despite the pressure, Russell’s performance has been consistently strong this season, comfortably outperforming rookie teammate Antonelli in several races. This success solidified his role as a top contender in the Formula 1 drivers’ championship, currently sitting fourth, while Antonelli ranks seventh.

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The Dynamics of a Multi-Year Deal

Mercedes’ announcement confirmed that both drivers will compete “into 2026,” though the team did not specify the exact length of the contracts. Reports suggest Russell has negotiated a multi-year deal with some flexibility, potentially allowing adjustments if Mercedes’ new car and engine regulations for 2026 fail to deliver the expected performance.

The 2026 regulations introduce major changes, including a larger reliance on electrical power units and sustainable fuels, making predictions about competitiveness challenging. Mercedes is widely regarded as a frontrunner in adapting to these changes, but uncertainty remains—both for drivers and team leadership.

For Wolff, securing Russell and Antonelli ensures stability while keeping the door open for future talks with Verstappen. Although a partnership between Russell and Verstappen seems unlikely due to past tensions, Wolff has made it clear that performance and strategic considerations will guide any future negotiations.

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Verstappen, Red Bull, and the Future of F1

Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 world champion, remains the sport’s most in-demand driver. With Red Bull preparing a new engine for the 2026 rules, Verstappen could again consider a move if the team fails to maintain championship-winning form. Russell and Mercedes are fully aware of these dynamics and have negotiated their positions accordingly, balancing security with flexibility.

As Wolff emphasized earlier this year: “Our sport is pressure, constant pressure. Whether you’re in the car, outside the car, you just need to cope with that. George knows that, like any other driver knows it.” This approach reflects the high-stakes environment of Formula 1 contract negotiations and the constant strategic calculations made by both teams and drivers.

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Key Takeaways

• George Russell and Kimi Antonelli confirmed at Mercedes for 2026.
• Max Verstappen speculation officially ends, though future moves remain possible.
• Russell has demonstrated strong performance, securing his position as a potential team leader.
• New F1 regulations for 2026 introduce uncertainty that could affect team strategies and contracts.
• Mercedes maintains flexibility for future negotiations with top-tier drivers.

This announcement closes a major chapter in the 2025 Formula 1 season, allowing Mercedes to focus on refining their car and preparing for the challenges of next year’s championship battles.