Russell struggles in Brazil as Mercedes clinch constructors' title

George Russell finished fourth at the Brazilian Grand Prix after missing out on pole position to McLaren's Lando Norris. He recovered from a spin at the pit exit after switching from intermediate to slick tyres. Former IndyCar driver and F1 TV pundit James Hinchcliffe said Russell had good reason to look defeated after a tough season marked by bad luck.

Russell started 2026 as a clear title favourite and won the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, but faced numerous issues, many outside his control. Team-mate Kimi Antonelli won nine grands prix and became the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history.

Despite the difficult afternoon, Russell said he left the weekend encouraged by his performance. Mercedes secured the constructors' championship, which Russell described as an incredible achievement for the whole team.