Russell: This season will not wear me down

George Russell said the 2026 Formula 1 season will not wear him down. Kimi Antonelli could win the world championship this weekend at the Mexican Grand Prix. If Antonelli finishes ninth or higher, or if Russell or Lewis Hamilton fails to win Sunday's race, the title will go to the Italian driver. In that case, the 20-year-old Antonelli would become the youngest world champion in F1 history.

Russell took the upper hand over his teammate in the 2025 season and entered 2026 as the favourite. However, this season he has won three races, while Antonelli has won nine. Russell admitted he has been going through a tough period. "This year I have honestly learned more about myself than I expected," he said.

Russell reminded everyone that he is 28 years old. He noted that Hamilton, at 41, and Fernando Alonso, at 44, are still racing very well. Hamilton won most of his titles in his thirties. Russell said, "This year will never define my career. It won't break me, it will make me stronger."

Russell also stressed that he often bounces back quickly from bad weekends and misfortune. He pointed out that after Antonelli's win in Madrid, he took pole position and victory in Baku.