Russell opens up after Antonelli clinches 2026 title: 'Not meant to be my year'

George Russell has broken his silence after skipping post-race media duties in Mexico, conceding that “2026 was not meant to be my year” as Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli sealed the title. The Briton posted a candid message to fans after a season that began with promise but unravelled through poor performances and tough luck.

Why it matters:

Russell entered 2026 as the clear title favourite after winning in Australia and the Chinese sprint, but Antonelli took control in Japan and never let go. The gap between Mercedes’ constructors’ success and Russell’s personal struggle is one of the season’s defining storylines.

The details:

• Russell said he has had “more bad days than good” for the first time in his career, but insisted he has given “my all.”
• He congratulated Antonelli on an “absolutely incredible season” and praised Mercedes for delivering the best car and power unit after four tough years.
• His sixth place in Mexico dropped him from second to fourth, yet only 16 points cover second to fifth.

What’s next:

Russell remains in a tight fight for second in the drivers’ championship and has pledged to give “absolute all” for the rest of 2026 and into next season. With Mercedes back on top, the focus now is whether he can reset and rediscover his best form.