George Russell was one of the most consistent performers in 2025, finishing 4th in the standings behind Verstappen and the two McLaren’s.
The 27-year-old is pleased with his efforts this season, which he describes as his best. Still, Russell makes no secret he is eager to fight for a Championship.
Not only does he feel ready for this challenge, but the British driver sees Verstappen as the ultimate reference.
Russell doesn’t shy away from Verstappen
Timing is essential in Formula 1, and in George Russell’s case, his timing has sometimes been frustrating. For example, his first year at Mercedes – 2022 – was at the beginning of a bitterly frustrating set of regulations for the Silver Arrows.
Had he joined Mercedes one or two years sooner, Russell would almost certainly have many more victories to his name.
In this sense, the 27-year-old will hope the stars align for Toto Wolff’s team in 2026. The German constructor have been at the centre of an engine controversy which, depending on the outcome, could influence next season’s pecking order.
Assuming Mercedes are fighting at the front, it will be Russell and Antonelli entrusted with delivering results.
The last twelve months have shown glimpses of Antonelli’s potential. The 19-year-old’s progression has been clear, and Toto Wolff has not hidden his expectations for another steep in 2026.
Still, Russell had a clear edge over his young teammate this year. He will expect to maintain this advantage next year, as he braces himself for a potential title battle.
In a show of confidence, the #63 driver reflected on his season after the Abu Dhabi GP:
“I definitely know I can mix it with those guys at the top. Max is obviously the gold standard at the moment.
“I think he’s the one I’d want to go head-to-had with. He’s the only driver on the grid you’d want to be teammates with to see your competitiveness…
“For me to finish 2nd in the Championship or 20th in the Championship, honestly, it’s kind of the same thing. You’re not winning.”
Cementing his position at Mercedes
Russell’s impressive record against 7-time Champion Lewis Hamilton gives him reason to be confident in his abilities. By all metrics, the Mercedes driver was operating at the highest level in 2025.
The Briton is clearly confident that he can and would execute if given a car capable of the title. This sentiment has been clear for some time, but is increasingly apparent ahead of the next set of regulations.
To some extent, Russell was left in an awkward position for large portions of the year. Mercedes spent months in negotiations with Verstappen, which meant Russell’s own contract talks were put on hold.
Given his time with the Silver Arrows, Toto Wolff’s persistent efforts to acquire Verstappen’s services are noteworthy.
This likely incentivised Russell to secure a multi-year deal with Mercedes, featuring clauses that he feels give him an element of protection if the Dutchman looks beyond Red Bull.
In any case, the 27-year-old will be eager to further establish himself as the number one. Should the factories in Brackley and Brixworth produce the car, Russell expects himself to get the job done.
READ MORE: Why Mercedes already hold the keys to F1 2026
Main photo: LAT Images (Mercedes F1 Media Archive)