Mercedes Secures 2026 Line-up, Ending Verstappen Speculation

Mercedes End Verstappen Talk with Russell-Antonelli Confirmation

The long-running speculation over Max Verstappen potentially joining Mercedes has been brought to an end — at least for now — with the team officially confirming George Russell and Kimi Antonelli as its driver pairing for the 2026 Formula 1 season.

While Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff claimed it was always a matter of “when, not if,” insiders know the story was far more turbulent behind the scenes.

Verstappen Shadows Mercedes’ 2026 Plans

Despite Wolff publicly playing down the idea, it’s no secret that Max Verstappen was a genuine target for the Brackley-based team. Discussions reportedly occurred throughout the 2025 season — particularly during the uncertainty surrounding Red Bull’s engine performance heading into the 2026 regulation reset.

George Russell found himself at the centre of this saga. The Briton, who has outperformed rookie teammate Kimi Antonelli and beaten Lewis Hamilton in two of their three seasons together, admitted to feeling the pressure.

“Maybe interests were not aligned for the last six months. But it’s my job to perform and reduce that risk,” said Russell during the Hungarian GP weekend.

Russell, Antonelli Confirmed — But for How Long?

George Russell (centre), Max Verstappen (left) and Kimi Antonelli were the top-three finishers at the Canadian Grand Prix in June

Mercedes’ announcement confirms both Russell and Antonelli will drive for the team “into 2026.” However, the length of their respective deals is deliberately vague. Russell’s new contract is described as “multi-year,” but that could mean one year plus options — providing flexibility for both sides.

That flexibility is key, especially with major new regulations being introduced in 2026 — including new power units and sustainable fuels. Mercedes are believed to be ahead in developing these new engines, but if they’re not, Russell could look elsewhere.

Verstappen Still a Future Option?

Max Verstappen has won the Formula 1 drivers’ championship in each of the past four years

Despite the latest contracts, the Verstappen-to-Mercedes dream isn’t dead. The Dutchman is under contract at Red Bull until 2028, but frustrations have grown as Red Bull’s dominance began to slip in mid-2024.

Verstappen still managed to retain the 2024 title, but with only two wins in the final 14 races, his championship defence was a grind. If Red Bull’s new in-house power unit fails to deliver in 2026, Verstappen may seek a more competitive seat.

And Wolff won’t hesitate if the opportunity arises again.

“When you’re being put in a comfort zone, sometimes that is more detrimental to performance,” Wolff commented earlier this year, underscoring the pressure all F1 drivers face.

Antonelli’s Gamble and Growth

Kimi Antonelli, the highly rated rookie, will remain Russell’s teammate in 2026 despite a challenging debut season. While Russell has clearly led the team, Mercedes remains invested in the Italian’s long-term potential — a key reason they would have likely moved him aside for Verstappen had the deal materialised.

Now, with his seat secured, Antonelli can continue developing without the looming shadow of being dropped.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

Kimi Antonelli (front) is seventh in the 2025 drivers’ championship and George Russell is fourth

With Mercedes now focused on 2026, the team is betting on:

• George Russell’s leadership and consistency

• Antonelli’s long-term upside

• New power unit superiority under the upcoming rules

Meanwhile, Verstappen — still arguably the most in-demand driver on the grid — will remain the kingmaker in future driver market movements.

For now, however, the Verstappen-to-Mercedes rumours are put to rest. But as always in F1, “for now” never means forever.