Russell says F1 title loss has been 'tough to deal with' as Antonelli clinches crown

George Russell has said his struggles during 2026, while Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli claimed the drivers' championship, have been "tough to deal with" and had left him often confused. Russell won the season opener but then found himself losing ground as Antonelli built up momentum, with the Briton acknowledging he has had more bad days than good.

In a post on Instagram, Russell congratulated Antonelli on an incredible season and said the Italian deserved the title. Russell has won three races to Antonelli's nine. He finished sixth at the Mexico City Grand Prix, dropping to fourth in the standings, after a power glitch at the start and a collision with Red Bull's Isack Hadjar. He received a 10-second penalty for that incident.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said Russell was distraught after the race and praised his sportsmanship in going to see Antonelli.