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Mercedes splits car specifications for Russell and Antonelli at Singapore GP

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 8, 2026, 8:38 AM

Last updated Oct 8, 2026

Mercedes splits car specifications for Russell and Antonelli at Singapore GP

Summary

Mercedes has confirmed a divided strategy for the Singapore Grand Prix weekend. George Russell will utilize an older aerodynamic package while Kimi Antonelli will run the newer Malaysia upgrade. This decision comes after Russell's recent power unit failure resulted in a mandatory engine penalty, limiting his chances for a competitive finish. By using Russell’s race weekend as a testing opportunity, Mercedes aims to gather valuable data without jeopardizing Antonelli's championship lead.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports Motorsport.com

Key Details

•George Russell will run an older car specification at the Singapore GP.
•Kimi Antonelli will use the new Malaysia aerodynamic upgrade.
•Russell's strategy is impacted by a recent engine penalty.
•Mercedes aims to collect data without risking Antonelli's title bid.
•The decision aligns with a split-specification comparison test approach.

Latest Updates

8:38 AMYahoo Sports — Mercedes decides which driver will take major F1 downgrade at Singapore GP
8:38 AMMotorsport.com — Mercedes decides which driver will take major F1 downgrade at Singapore GP

What they're saying

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After Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recently confirmed that the team would run a drastic split-specification comparison test to troubleshoot their troubled aerodynamic updates, the exact garage assignments remained a complete mystery. Now, with the paddock setting up for the highly anticipated Singapore Grand Prix sprint weekend, Mercedes has officially defined its strategy. The split ...Keep reading
— Motorsport.com