Overview
- Kimi Antonelli has won three straight Grands Prix, including Miami, and now leads George Russell by 20 points after four rounds.
- Russell told reporters he expects the momentum to swing back in his favor and said his experience in past title runs gives him confidence.
- Reporting has suggested Russell may need the 2026 crown to trigger a one‑year option at Mercedes, though he insists he has a multi‑year deal and says he will be with the team next season.
- Former champions Juan Pablo Montoya and Damon Hill argued the contract talk and Antonelli’s rise could weigh on Russell’s mindset and status inside the team.
- Separate rumors suggest Max Verstappen could gain a release option later this year if certain standings triggers are met, with Toto Wolff linked as an interested suitor, though none of this is confirmed.