P1racenews AI automatic summary:
After many months of speculation, Mercedes has finally confirmed its driver line-up for the 2026 F1 season.
Mercedes has officially confirmed George Russell and Kimi Antonelli as their driver line-up for the 2026 F1 season, resolving months of uncertainty. Russell, who initially joined Mercedes in 2022, renewed his contract with the team after negotiations with Toto Wolff. The team’s pursuit of Max Verstappen cast doubt on Russell’s future, but Verstappen’s signing did not materialize. Russell’s persistence in seeking better terms ultimately solidified his position with Mercedes. Antonelli, a promising rookie, will continue alongside Russell, aiming to make further improvements following flashes of brilliance in the current season. This driver pairing will lead Mercedes into the next chapter of Formula 1 with revised technical regulations in 2026.
