George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli will remain the drivers for Mercedes in 2026. This was announced by Toto Wolff, the CEO and team boss of the German team.
After the Dutch Grand Prix, Wolff confirmed once again that there will be no changes in the line-up of his team next season.
"We are continuing with both of them, of course," the Austrian told, among others, GPblog.
Why the delay with Russell?
This announcement is not a surprise at all, because after Max Verstappen declined, Wolff was quick to announce his intention to continue with his current drivers.
The reason for the delay in an official announcement is due to several matters in Russell's contract that need further negotiation, according to Wolff.
"With George, there are a few things where we want to optimise. Some of the travelling and the marketing days, how many hours we are putting in.
"He is an experienced driver and for us it is It's always important to talk about it."
"We want to have the best performance of the drivers and I think we've given both of them quite a strain with marketing activities and media activities and this is how we're, in a way, recalibrating," said Wolff.
The Austrian, however, seems to rule out that there will be a big announcement at any time.
"I don't think it's going to be even a big announcement.
"It's just going to give you the heads up and say we've put a signature on the agreement."
No Verstappen for Mercedes
As is well known, Mercedes chased after the services of Max Verstappen for a long time. The Dutchman considered moving from Red Bull Racing to the Germans, but eventually decided to stay where he is.
It is not known for how many years Antonelli and Russell will sign a contract or if there will eventually be the opportunity to persuade Verstappen to come to Mercedes in '27.
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