David Croft says George Russell is putting himself under ‘a lot of pressure’ to win the 2026 title

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George Russell is putting ‘pressure’ on himself ahead of being a championship challenger in 2026.

After pre-season testing wrapped up, the Formula 1 paddock is on its way to Melbourne for the opening round of the 2026 season.

There have been several predictions over who will be at the front of the pack throughout the year and become a potential championship challenger.

With Mercedes as the favourite at the end of the Bahrain test, George Russell has become one of the favourites to become the 2026 Formula 1 champion.

Prove him wrong: Lando Norris believes George Russell is an F1 champion in the making

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David Croft believes ‘Mercedes are in a really good position’

Ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, David Croft appeared on Sky Sports F1 to discuss the year ahead for Russell and Mercedes.

Although Russell was relaxed in the Bahrain paddock after the final pre-season test, Croft knows that he will be putting pressure on himself.

Croft said, “Judging by the way George Russell was walking around the paddock in Bahrain, not much to be honest. He had his short shorts on and a big smile.

“I think inwardly there will be a lot of pressure that George will put on himself, because he knows Mercedes are in a really good position.

“They were in 2014, the last time we had major power unit changes, Mercedes went out and created one of the most impressive engines we have ever seen in the sport.

“George is leading the Mercedes charge. He looks comfortable and looks at home. But knows as well, if he does not do his research properly on how he needs to drive, there are plenty of drivers around him, including his teammate, that could take advantage.”

Could Russell beat Verstappen?

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Ralf Schumacher backs Kimi Antonelli over George Russell

Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher has discussed who he believes will be the title favourites for the 2026 season.

The German believes that Mercedes have the best chance of winning the 2026 title, and has backed Kimi Antonelli to win the title over Russell.

As well as the Mercedes duo, Schumacher has also named Charles Leclerc, and Max Verstappen as championship contenders.

Bernie Ecclestone has also publicly backed Russell to contend for the Formula 1 title, but believes he needs to have a killer instinct throughout the season.