George Russell targets US race for looming Mercedes engine grid penalty

Mercedes driver George Russell has confirmed that he will face another engine grid penalty before the end of the 2026 season. After previously serving a 60-place grid penalty at the Singapore Grand Prix, the British driver revealed that the team plans to tactically delay his next power unit change until later in the campaign, targeting the Las Vegas Grand Prix to take advantage of its overtaking-friendly layout.

Mercedes chose to avoid taking the penalty at earlier races like Austin, Mexico City, or Interlagos, where track position is critical. The looming upgrade is part of a late-season push, with Russell testing hardware while teammate Kimi Antonelli defends a 102-point championship lead.