Russell speaks out after Mexico media snub as Antonelli clinches title

George Russell has addressed his decision to leave mandatory media duties in Mexico, where his Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli won the world championship. Russell was fined EUR 5000 for not completing his post-race obligations, although Mercedes has accepted responsibility for the penalty. In a post on social media, Russell said 2026 had been the first proper season of his career where he had more bad days than good, and described it as the hardest year of his career.

Team boss Toto Wolff said he completely understood the decision to leave early, calling the moment "catastrophic" for a racing driver and describing the media blackout as "absolutely understandable". Former MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi, a friend of Antonelli, said Russell's situation was tough, while outgoing champion Lando Norris said he hoped Russell could challenge Antonelli more closely next year.