Mercedes form debate grows around Russell and Antonelli

Mercedes’ form is under fresh scrutiny as George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli assess their 2026 pace, with Antonelli leading Russell 179-154.

Mercedes’ form is under fresh scrutiny after George Russell’s recent swings in results and performance. BBC Sport reported that Russell’s Austrian Grand Prix win gave him confidence, while Formula1.com said Jolyon Palmer had pointed to a problem for Russell in the championship picture. RaceFans also reported that Russell said he was still struggling to understand the Mercedes car after Silverstone.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli leads the 2026 drivers’ championship on 179 points, with Russell second on 154 and Lewis Hamilton third on 147. BBC Sport reported that Russell and Antonelli’s intra-team battle was a central talking point, while Motorsport.com said several pundits urged caution over judging either Mercedes driver too quickly after the British Grand Prix. Mercedes, a constructor with 138 wins and eight titles, is also facing outside pressure, with Motorsport.com reporting that the team had set out its upgrade approach as Ferrari and Red Bull closed in.