Wolff apologises to Russell for Mercedes 'sh*tshow' as Antonelli seals 2026 title

Kimi Antonelli clinched the 2026 F1 drivers’ title in Mexico City with a podium finish, becoming the youngest champion in series history. George Russell, the pre-season favourite, ended P6 as his title hopes officially ended. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff then apologized to Russell in a post-race clip, admitting the team had let him down “again.”

Why it matters:

Mercedes has a champion again, but through Antonelli’s quick adaptation to the 2026 regulations rather than Russell’s title bid. Wolff’s blunt apology shows Mercedes knows Russell’s season was damaged by car inconsistency and operational errors, not just pace.

The details:

• Antonelli needed ninth to seal the title; he finished third.
• Wolff said an energy deployment problem ruined Russell’s race.
• “We completely let him down today. Again,” Wolff said. “The car just didn’t work for him this year.”
• Russell was distraught but visited Antonelli, a show of sportsmanship Wolff praised.
• Mercedes was fined €5,000 after Russell left without speaking to the media.

What’s next:

Wolff has promised Russell the equipment and support to fight for a title, while Nico Rosberg urged him to rediscover enjoyment and build for 2027. Russell’s response will shape whether Mercedes’ apology becomes a turning point or another missed opportunity.