George Russell has opened up about his reaction following Kimi Antonelli’s clinching of the 2026 Formula 1® Drivers’ Championship at the Mexico City Grand Prix. The race marked a historic moment as Antonelli became the youngest champion in the sport’s history, but for Russell, it was a reminder of a challenging season.
Antonelli secured the title by finishing third in Mexico City, ending the season with 380 points. Meanwhile, Russell faced difficulties during the race, starting poorly due to a deployment issue and receiving a 10-second penalty after contact with Isack Hadjar, which contributed to his sixth-place finish. Reflecting on the season, Russell described it as “rubbish,” highlighting that he encountered problems in 14 of the 20 races, a significant increase compared to previous years.
Russell shared that immediately after the race, he felt the need to “just get out of here” to clear his mind and recover mentally. He skipped post-race media obligations and took some time away from the track to process the frustrations. Despite the setbacks, he acknowledged Antonelli’s achievement and congratulated him on his championship win.
Throughout the season, Russell’s title hopes were hindered by reliability and performance issues with the Mercedes W17 car. He noted that the number of setbacks this year was unusually high, which contrasted sharply with his previous campaigns. Still, he emphasized the importance of resilience, expressing a determination to come back stronger despite the tough moments.
The Mexico City Grand Prix was a defining moment for both drivers, with Antonelli making history and Russell confronting the reality of a difficult year. His candid reflections provide insight into the mental challenges faced by drivers when results do not meet expectations, even at the highest level of motorsport.
Russell’s comments underline the unpredictable nature of the championship and the fine margins that can separate success from disappointment. While the season concluded with Antonelli’s record-breaking title, Russell’s perspective highlights the personal and professional hurdles that can shape a driver’s journey in Formula 1®.
His acknowledgment of Antonelli’s success alongside his own struggles offers a balanced view of the season’s outcome, focusing on the realities behind the headlines rather than dramatic narratives. This honest reflection contributes to a deeper understanding of the pressures within the sport and the resilience required to compete at the top.