‘I’m in the best place possible’ – Russell boosted by new Mercedes deal as he sees ‘huge opportunity’ for title push in 2026

George Russell described himself as “super happy” after strolling into the paddock ahead of the United States Grand Prix with a new Mercedes deal under his belt, believing the squad offer him the “best chance” of winning the title in 2026.

Russell’s future had been talked about for months amid team boss Toto Wolff’s open interest in Red Bull driver Max Verstappen, but this week finally brought confirmation that the Briton and team mate Kimi Antonelli will continue at Mercedes.

After almost four seasons at the team that have yielded five wins but no title challenge under the current ground effect regulations, Russell expressed confidence that the Silver Arrows can nail next year’s regulations reset.

“We’re not achieving the results that we believe we are capable of, but next year is a huge opportunity for me as a driver, for the team,” said Russell. “It’s a massive reset and it’s an exciting one. I’m super happy, and together we’re super happy to continue this journey.”

Russell went on to share a few more details about his contract, stating that it is “multi-year” and “definitely [for] 2026” – with Wolff being “very generous” in the terms that were offered after conversations about his off-track workload.

“I think for any team/driver combination, a driver needs to be happy and feel they’ve got the support of the team to allow you to deliver your best – I think that goes for any single industry,” he continued.

“We’ve got this common goal of winning and bringing Mercedes back on top. Toto has been very generous with the proposal, and he didn’t need to be. He could have, if he wanted to, been much harsher.

“He hasn’t because he recognises and wants to reward me for the job I’ve done, and he wants to make sure I’m in the best place possible for the upcoming year. That’s why I'm here with a smile on my face and excited for the future.”

Previewing what might be to come, ahead of those rule changes, Russell added: “I’m loyal to Mercedes, they’ve shown their loyalty in me, and I believe going into 2026 Mercedes without a doubt is my best chance of winning a World Championship.

“Maybe we’re wrong. Who knows? No one knows what will happen in 2026. But if I could have every single seat available to me, I would still choose Mercedes.”

Antonelli was in a similarly upbeat mood as he faced questions from the media at Austin’s Circuit of The Americas, with the Italian teenager keeping his spot amid what has been a rollercoaster first season in the sport.

“I’m really happy to finally get the confirmation, and it’s nice to see that the team is really trusting me and really giving me their support,” he commented.

“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 I’m super happy with the new contract and now I can drive freer for the rest of the season.”

Russell and Antonelli will be pushing to secure P2 in the Teams’ Championship between now and the Abu Dhabi season finale – Mercedes currently holding that spot on 325 points over Ferrari on 298 and Red Bull on 290.