30/08/2025 21:50
Toto Wolff has given a further update about the identity of
Mercedes' driver line-up for the 2026 F1 season. The team had been
linked with a sensational swoop for Max Verstappen from Red Bull,
and with confirmation the reigning champion would not be leaving
for 2026, Mercedes is believed to be set on retaining its current
line-up. George Russell's contract runs out at the end of the
current season, with talks long taking place between him and Wolff,
whilst rookie team-mate Kimi Antonelli was handed a one-year deal
to replace Lewis Hamilton. News of an official announcement has
not yet come from the Brackley squad, but Wolff has dropped a firm
hint about the Russell-Antonelli line-up continuing for a second
season in 2026. "It will be confirmed, absolutely," Wolff told
Viaplay. "There is no reason not to continue with the two; they are
doing well. "George is performing better than the car in most
grands prix as far as I'm concerned, and with Kimi, we just need to
rebuild the confidence. But the speed is definitely there, so it
will be fine."
