Kimi Antonelli denies Mercedes theory over George Russell position

Kimi Antonelli has denied that he has established himself as the “number one driver” within Mercedes this year.

The Italian driver has enjoyed a highly successful campaign so far and is the heavy favourite to win the 2026 title, having grown his championship lead to 81 points over Russell.

Antonelli has often had the upper hand on his team-mate this year, with Russell struggling to get up to speed with the new car build under a fresh set of regulations.

Earlier this month at the Italian Grand Prix, theories were raised that Antonelli was given preferential treatment when he was given fresh tyres under a virtual safety car, while Russell was kept out.

Despite his healthy lead at the head of the standings, Antonelli has denied that he is now the number one driver at the team.

“Within Mercedes, I feel like there's no number one driver in the team,” Antonelli told media including RacingNews365.

“The team, rightly so, they want to give us both the same opportunities.

“Of course, George is an incredible driver and he's been on form in the past two races.

“So for sure, I don't feel like there's a number one driver.”

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Antonelli doesn't feel like 'true leader' at Mercedes

Despite his significant deficit to Antonelli in the standings, Russell too has voiced the opinion that he is on equal terms with Antonelli.

Antonelli's rise to the forefront of the F1 grid has come in just his second season, taking many by surprise.

But as he closes in on a maiden title, he does not expect Mercedes to give him additional help by sacrificing Russell's chances.

“The team treat us the same way, they give us the same opportunities. So for sure, I don't feel like I'm the true leader,” he said.

“I feel like we're both on the same level and that's the way [it is].”