Mercedes Prioritizes Russell and Antonelli for 2026 Season

Mercedes Formula 1 team principal Toto Wolff has confirmed that retaining George Russell and rising star Andrea Kimi Antonelli remains the top priority for the 2026 F1 season, despite swirling rumors of interest in Max Verstappen.

Speaking to ORF, Wolff stated that contract talks are ongoing with Russell, whose current deal runs through 2025. Meanwhile, Antonelli, who is being groomed as a future star, has yet to be formally confirmed for the 2026 seat. The situation unfolds amid growing speculation about Verstappen’s long-term future — even though the Dutchman is under contract with Red Bull until 2028.

“The direction of travel is definitely that we want to continue with George and Kimi. That is the absolute priority,” Wolff emphasized.

The Mercedes boss also addressed recent rumors of a meeting with Verstappen while vacationing in Sardinia, denying any secret talks. The gossip was fueled by manipulated photos showing Wolff boarding what was claimed to be Verstappen’s private jet.

“What’s new is that people are doing photo collages with airplanes. But if you spend your holidays close to each other, it doesn’t mean you’re going to work together in Formula 1,” he explained.

While Mercedes is firmly focused on securing Russell and Antonelli for the near future, Wolff’s comments leave the door slightly open for possible collaboration with Verstappen beyond 2026.