Russell says it was just not his year, congratulates Antonelli
The Briton started the year as the bookmakers' title favourite, ahead of 20-year-old Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli in only his second season.
George Russell expressed his disappointment on Monday, stating that 2026 was not his year and congratulating Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli on his Formula One title win. The British driver was granted a break from media duties following Sunday's Mexico City Grand Prix, as team boss Toto Wolff revealed Russell was "distraught" by how the race transpired.
Russell began the season optimistically, but it quickly deteriorated with poor performances and bad days surpassing good ones. He acknowledged the challenges and confusion he faced throughout the season, ultimately crediting Antonelli's victory to his deserving performance, promising to give his all for the remainder of the season and the next.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- Russell’s title hopes collapse as Antonelli claims historic F1 crown malaymail.com
- Russell says it was just not his year, congratulates Antonelli freemalaysiatoday.com
- Russell says it was just not his year, congratulates Antonelli nst.com.my
- Russell ‘distraught’ as Antonelli seals title; Mercedes fined for media no-show indianexpress.com
- Russell says it was just not his year, congratulates Antonelli channelnewsasia.com
