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Otmar Szafnauer has explained why he is backing George Russell to beat ‘generational talent’ Kimi Antonelli in the 2026 Formula 1 title race.
After four races, it seems increasingly likely that one of Russell or Antonelli will end the season as the world champion.
Mercedes have clearly been the dominant force in 2026, leaving the likes of Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull in their wake.
During the Miami Grand Prix, it was evident that the gap between Mercedes and their rivals had closed slightly.
However, the gap could increase once more in Canada as Mercedes are expected to bring their own upgrades to enhance the performance of the W17.
Do you think Kimi Antonelli will become Mercedes’ No. 1 driver?
Otmar Szafnauer backs George Russell to beat ‘generational’ Kimi Antonelli to 2026 title
Speaking on the latest episode of the High Performance Racing podcast, ex-Alpine and Aston Martin team boss Szafnauer is still backing Russell to come out on top.
The 61-year-old claimed that after experiencing last season’s title race, it is way too early to say Antonelli will win.
In addition, he pointed out the fact that Russell did beat Antonelli in the Sprint in Miami.
Szafnauer said: “Everyone’s entitled to their own opinions, but they’re not entitled to their own facts. Last year, I thought after winter testing, I’m betting the house on Lando.
“Mid-season, I had to tell the wife we might be moving, because Oscar will win. The whole world thought Oscar had it, and by the end? Lando won it.
“It’s way too early to predict who is going to win it at the end. For me, Kimi did a great job, but for whatever reason, and I don’t know the answer, Kimi goes well there.”
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He continued: “In the Sprint race, did George beat him? Yes, he did, in this Sprint race, George beat him. Overtook him and beat him.
“Kimi wins the main race, did a great job, for sure, but because of that variability, you can’t say Kimi Antonelli is going to win it. Although I think he could be a generational talent.
“If I had to bet the house again, I would today, even though George Russell is 20 points behind Kimi, I’d still put my money on George.”
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George Russell remains confident despite a 20-point gap to Antonelli
Speaking after a disappointing weekend in Miami, Russell claimed that he has not ‘forgotten how to drive’.
The 28-year-old stated that he still has confidence in his own ability and vows to reassess things before the Canadian Grand Prix.
As per Sky Sports, Russell said: “I’ve still got confidence in myself and have also been there. I’ve not forgotten how to drive.
“It’s just a little bit of a tricky run but we are four races down, a long way to go and I think, we will reassess things over the next few weeks.”
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