Photo: Race Pictures.

Wolff fires back as bookmakers anoint Russell as 2026 title favourite

08:01, 03 Feb

byTobia Elia

Toto Wolff has responded to bookmakers tipping George Russell as the favourite for the 2026 title.

“It’s always nice when your driver is the bookmakers’ favourite, and I think he deserves it because he’s one of the best”

- Toto Wolff

The 2026 season has not even begun yet, but the Briton is already being tipped as the leading contender for the title — which would be the first of his career if he were to come out on top.

The Austrian, speaking to GPblog among other media, said he was pleased by that assessment but stressed he would rather wait for the verdict of the track before getting carried away.

“It’s always nice when your driver is the bookmakers’ favourite, and I think he deserves it because he’s one of the best. He’s shown us where the performance of the car is and has been more than great for us overall. But at the same time, it’s always the best driver in the best car who wins.

“We haven’t yet proven that we have a package that’s good enough. We also haven’t been out in Bahrain, on abrasive tarmac, which has always been tricky for us. So, of course, I hope the bookmakers are right — but I’ll believe it when we’ve seen performances that truly back it up.”

Photo: Race Pictures

Russell sets out major expectations for Antonelli ahead of 2026 season

Russell has outlined what he expects from teammate Kimi Antonelli as the Italian heads into just his second season with Mercedes.

Speaking to GPblog among other media, the Briton expressed strong confidence in Antonelli’s abilities, hailing him as one of the most exciting talents to keep an eye on in Formula 1’s future.

“Kimi very much falls into the category of a future top-class driver, and there’s no doubt he’ll take another step forward this year compared to last,” he said.

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