Damon Hill makes George Russell and Kimi Antonelli ‘champion’ claim as Mercedes confirm 2026 line-up

Follow us on Google Discover

Mercedes have confirmed that George Russell and Kimi Antonelli have signed new contracts ahead of the 2026 season.

Discussions had been ongoing for months as the two Mercedes drivers were out of contract in 2025. Their new contracts were delayed as Toto Wolff held an interest in signing Max Verstappen.

The Austrian had tried to sign the four-time champion in 2024, but could not strike a deal. Wolff held further talks with Verstappen in 2025 as the 28-year-old expressed frustration over Red Bull’s regression in performance.

However, the Dutchman committed to the Milton Keynes outfit for at least 2026, causing Wolff to back off and focus on retaining his current drivers. He confirmed that Russell and Antonelli would get new contracts after the Singapore GP, which were then announced on Wednesday.

Damon Hill wonders if George Russell or Kimi Antonelli could be 2026 ‘champion’ after Mercedes deals confirmed

Mercedes’ statement did not go into detail about the length of their drivers’ new contracts, simply saying that they would be racing in 2026. However, it is understood that Russell has signed a multi-year deal.

Antonelli also has a ‘long-term arrangement’ with the Silver Arrows, as the team view him as the future of the team. The 19-year-old has had a tough rookie season in 2025, with his teammate outperforming him as he struggles for consistent points finishes.

There is a lot of optimism surrounding Mercedes in the paddock ahead of the 2026 F1 regulations. It is rumoured that they have the fastest power unit next season, which could put their drivers in a position to fight for the title.

Posting on his Instagram story, 1996 F1 champion Damon Hill wondered if Russell or Antonelli could go all the way, as he wrote: “Are we looking at a 2026 F1 World Champion?”

Writing on X (formerly Twitter), Hill also gave his preview for the United States Grand Prix this weekend: “In Austin with @bbc5live this weekend.

“Maxi V, can he claw back more points? It’s a Sprinter weekend. Plenty to play for. Lando? Can he pile on more pressure? Ferrari? Eh? These are the last chapters of this year’s Championship. Going to be a bit more feisty now!”

READ MORE: Mercedes driver George Russell’s life outside F1 from net worth to height

Max Verstappen’s links to Mercedes still hang over George Russell and Kimi Antonelli

While Russell and Antonelli have new contracts at Mercedes, the prospect of Verstappen joining the team is still there. Wolff has made it no secret that he wants the Dutchman in his car and will not sit back if he becomes available.

With Verstappen able to leave Red Bull in 2027 with exit clauses, Mercedes could emulate a Lewis Hamilton tactic with Russell. That is, for example, he could have signed a two-year deal with the option of a further year, allowing for a possible exit and a route to sign Verstappen.

Gary Anderson says Russell should be disappointed by his new contract as he felt Mercedes could have shown him ‘more respect’. The Brit is enjoying his best F1 season to date and is one of the strongest drivers on the grid.

But Mercedes have been accused of secretly trying to sign Verstappen by spreading rumours that they have the best engine in 2026. They may still be trying to convince the Red Bull star to jump ship, even after handing Russell and Antonelli new deals.