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F1: Mercedes Would ‘Prefer’ George Russell to Win Drivers’ Championship

Could this cause issues as the season nears its conclusion?

By Brandon James · Give me Sport

Published: Monday, 5 October 2026 at 10:40 AM

Key Things to Know

Martin Brundle suggested Mercedes would privately prefer Kimi Antonelli to win the Drivers' Championship over George Russell.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff insisted both drivers are treated equally and denied favoring either contender.
Wolff stated either driver winning would be great news for the team.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle suggested that Mercedes hierarchy would deep down prefer Kimi Antonelli to win the Drivers' Championship over teammate George Russell. Brundle made the comments despite Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff publicly insisting that the team gives both drivers equal opportunities and cannot show favoritism.

Wolff maintained that winning with either driver would be a great outcome, noting Russell's pursuit of a first title and Antonelli's standing as a generational talent. Antonelli currently holds an 84-point lead over Russell in the standings following Russell's retirement at the recent Grand Prix.

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F1: Mercedes Would ‘Prefer’ George Russell to Win Drivers’ Championship

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