Overview

• Team principal Toto Wolff said Mercedes will retain George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for 2026, with contracts still to be signed.
• Wolff described Russell’s extension as a formality while they recalibrate non‑racing obligations to support performance.
• No major announcement is planned at Monza, with Wolff expecting only a low‑key confirmation once agreements are executed.
• Max Verstappen’s decision to remain at Red Bull removed Mercedes’ top external option, reinforcing the choice to stick with its current pairing.
• Mercedes continues to back rookie Antonelli as a long‑term prospect after his Dutch GP penalties for a clash with Charles Leclerc and pit‑lane speeding, while Russell noted he paused talks over the summer break.