“I would choose Mercedes”: Russell backs team for 2026

Written by Kavi Khandelwal

George Russell has committed his future to Mercedes, signing a multi-year contract extension that will see him lead the team into Formula One's new regulation era in 2026. The Briton emphasised that his decision was driven by a firm belief in the team's potential for victory, rather than mere loyalty.

Credit: Formula One

The announcement confirms the team's lineup for a second consecutive year, but the focus is on Russell's conviction. When questioned about his new deal, the 27-year-old was unequivocal about where he sees his best chance for future success.

Russell said: "If I could stand here today and choose any team to race with for 2026 and beyond with the new regs and everything we know now, I would choose Mercedes and that isn’t out of loyalty or that they’ve given me the chance. It’s because I believe my best chance of winning next year is with Mercedes. I’m really happy about that."

Next year will mark a decade since Russell first signed with Mercedes in 2017. He explained that securing a long-term future was a personal priority to ensure he could maintain peak performance on track.

"Definitely 2026. It's multi-year," Russell confirmed, before elaborating on his motivation. "For me looking into next year there was a lot of things off-track that I wanted to get right to allow me to perform at my very best on track".

Russell joined the team full-time in 2022, and since then has been a pivotal figure. He secured the team's only win of that season in Brazil, and added victories in Austria and Canada in the subsequent years.

His most recent win at the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix solidifies his role as a capable driver as the extension confirms him to lead the team into 2026.

Team Principal and CEO Toto Wolff praised the partnership, stating: "George and Kimi have proved a strong pairing and we're excited to continue our journey together."

Credit: Formula One

The deal also confirms Kimi Antonelli will continue alongside Russell.

There was never much doubt about the situation, despite the teenager’s poor run of form through the European races. He rediscovered his form with a strong drive in Baku and followed it up with another impressive performance in Singapore.

Antonelli expressed his relief and optimism regarding the new contract. He said: "I think next year is going to be a completely different year with a lot of opportunities and I'm going to try and be ready to drive at my best and to fulfil the expectation, but super happy with the new contract and now I can drive freer for the rest of the season."

The announcement has made it clear: George Russell has placed his faith firmly in Mercedes to deliver a championship-contending car for F1's new era.