Jenson Button shares how George Russell feels amid Kimi Antonelli title fight after private meeting

Follow us on Google Discover

2009 Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button has spoken about whether George Russell is feeling the pressure at Mercedes after Kimi Antonelli’s flying start to the 2026 season. 

Antonelli has suddenly emerged as the favourite to win the 2026 F1 world title after winning back-to-back races in China and Japan. 

As things stand, the young Italian sits top of the world championship leaderboard, nine points clear of Mercedes teammate Russell. 

Heading into the season, many felt that Russell would be the clear frontrunner for the title, given his experience and talent.

However, it is Antonelli who has impressed the most so far this campaign, and with the Miami Grand Prix around the corner, he will be looking to secure a hat-trick of wins.

Jenson Button says George Russell seems ‘very calm’ amid Kimi Antonelli battle

Speaking recently to Sky Sports F1, former McLaren and Brawn driver Button stated that Russell will not be ‘fazed’ by Antonelli’s recent form. 

The 46-year-old also claimed that Russell seems ‘very calm’ after passing by him a few days ago. 

Button said: “I actually saw George a couple of days ago. He seems very calm and collected. It won’t faze George; he knows his speed, he knows it hasn’t gone his way, he’s been very unlucky, but you have to take the rough with the smooth.

“You have to understand that sometimes you might get unlucky, next race he might get the luck.

“Who knows, for me it’s an exciting championship to have those two fighting. Such a youngster in Kimi, so young. George, he’s a real powerhouse. I’m a big fan of George.”

What advice would you give Kimi Antonelli for his title fight with George Russell this year?

Let us know in the comments below!

Comment

Like or Comment

Have your say Sign-in now for free

READ MORE: Johnny Herbert tells Kimi Antonelli he must be ‘very selfish’ in title fight with George Russell

What has George Russell said about his title fight with Kimi Antonelli?

Speaking recently, the Brit stated that he is feeling great and hopes it will just be a battle between the Mercedes drivers for the title.

As reported by the F1 website, Russell said: “I felt great prior to any break and I feel great now, to be honest.

“Firstly, 100% [Mercedes will] give the same opportunity to the two of us. That’s always been the case for Mercedes ever since the Lewis [Hamilton] and [Nico] Rosberg days.

“Of course, I hope it’s just the two of us going for the championship, but I don’t want to get ahead of ourselves.

“I’m just taking it race by race. The championship is not even in my mind. I just go to every race, try and maximise the performance, and we’ll count the points at the end of the season.”

After a long break, Russell will get the chance to remind everyone what he is made of when the Miami Grand Prix gets underway next week.

The 28-year-old will be hoping to win both the Sprint and the Grand Prix in order to cut the gap to Antonelli.