‘It’s happened too many times’ – Russell on Bahrain DNF

Mercedes driver George Russell lamented another retirement after a late mechanical issue cost him a likely podium finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. Russell had run consistently in the top three throughout the rain-affected race before pulling over with a suspected power unit failure during a late Safety Car period.

The DNF marked Russell's third retirement of the season, leaving him 84 points behind teammate Kimi Antonelli, who finished second behind race winner Max Verstappen. Speaking after the race, Russell admitted his 2026 championship prospects are likely over following an unfortunate and relentless run of setbacks.