P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes is yet to tie down either of its F1 seats for the 2026 season when fresh regulations will come into play.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has announced that the team will confirm its driver lineup for the 2026 F1 season during this year’s summer break. As of now, one seat remains vacant for the upcoming campaign under the new technical regulations. It is expected that rookie Kimi Antonelli will retain his position within the team due to Mercedes’ long-term plans with the young Italian driver. The future of George Russell, however, remains uncertain, especially with Wolff expressing interest in potentially recruiting Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing. Wolff emphasized the importance of respecting all stakeholders involved in the decision-making process and aims to make timely and considerate choices regarding the drivers’ contracts. The official summer break will commence after the Hungarian Grand Prix in early August, during which Wolff hopes to finalize the lineup and eliminate any ongoing speculation surrounding the team’s drivers for the 2026 season.
