Guenther Steiner says George Russell must support Kimi Antonelli's title bid
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 29, 2026, 5:00 PM
Last updated Aug 29, 2026

Guenther Steiner stated that Mercedes has communicated to George Russell that his focus for the remainder of the 2026 season should be to support Kimi Antonelli in the championship race. After winning two races this season, Russell trails Antonelli, who has six victories and leads the standings with 242 points. Russell's role was highlighted when he allowed Antonelli to pass during the Dutch Grand Prix, a decision he later confirmed was correct. Steiner suggested a clear understanding of the team's strategy was established during the summer break, although this has not been officially confirmed by Mercedes.
- •Russell is currently second in the standings with 183 points.
- •Antonelli became the youngest driver to lead the championship.
- •Russell was instructed to let Antonelli pass during the Dutch Grand Prix.
- •Steiner indicated a strategic conversation likely occurred over the summer.
- •Mercedes aims to avoid past mistakes with team dynamics affecting championship chances.
- 5:00 PMYahoo Sports — Guenther Steiner claims Mercedes has made George Russell's support role clear
"Guenther Steiner believes Mercedes has made clear to George Russell that his priority for the rest of 2026 is to support Kimi Antonelli
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