Just one week after celebrating victory at the Austrian Grand Prix, Mercedes returned to the top step of the podium once again, this time during the Sprint race at the 2026 British Grand Prix. However, while Andrea Kimi Antonelli claimed a historic victory at Silverstone, teammate George Russell was left to reflect on what might have been after finishing fourth in front of his home crowd.
From Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s victory to George Russell’s disappointment
The Brackley-based team enjoyed another successful Saturday as Andrea Kimi Antonelli secured his first Formula 1 Sprint victory, extending his lead over George Russell in the Drivers’ Championship.
Russell was involved in several thrilling battles during the opening laps of the race, but as the Sprint unfolded he struggled to match the pace of his teammate, Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris. Ultimately, the British driver had to settle for fourth place.
George Russell: “I would have finished third”
Speaking to Sky Sport after the Sprint, George Russell admitted he had not expected Ferrari and McLaren to be as competitive as they proved to be. He also believes that losing third place during the opening lap ultimately cost him a place on the podium.
“Yes, it was a bit of a surprise, but I think if I had managed to hold onto third place on the opening lap, I would have finished third. The others were able to take advantage of the battles that were going on, but I think, in terms of race pace, we actually had a little bit more.”
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