Overview
- Mercedes officially named George Russell and Kimi Antonelli as its 2026 drivers ahead of the United States Grand Prix.
- Toto Wolff said he will learn from causing uncertainty by exploring Max Verstappen’s availability, calling the episode destabilizing.
- Wolff acknowledged Russell’s new agreement could include a provision to part ways after 2026, keeping options open despite a multi‑year deal.
- Antonelli’s arrangement is understood to cover 2026 only, and he said he must perform next season to earn a longer‑term future.
- Speculation continues that Mercedes could revisit Verstappen for 2027, although Wolff publicly emphasized confidence in the Russell‑Antonelli lineup and avoided fueling new rumors.