May 22 (GMM) George Russell insists he is not panicking despite mounting pressure from teenage teammate Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes.
Antonelli, still only 19 and now in his second Formula 1 season, arrives in Montreal comfortably leading the world championship after a stunning early-season run featuring three consecutive wins from pole position.
Meanwhile the more experienced Russell sits 20 points behind after a particularly difficult Miami weekend that intensified questions about his status inside the team.
Asked in Montreal how important Canada is for his title hopes, Russell replied: “It’s just another race for me.”
“It’s not even in my mind, the championship. I know what I’m capable of, I know the speed I’ve got.”
“Obviously, Miami was a bad weekend.”
Russell pointed out he recovered from a similarly poor Miami performance last year by immediately bouncing back in Canada. “There’s really no need to panic at all,” he insisted.
“We’re four races down, 18 at least to go.”
The Briton also rejected suggestions Mercedes’ current car concept no longer suits his driving style.
“No, I think it’s very circuit dependent, the same way as it was last year,” Russell said. If I look at it objectively, Miami was the only blip.”
“There’s no cause for concern. It’s business as usual.”
However, Antonelli’s growing role inside Mercedes is becoming increasingly noticeable as the team introduces its first major upgrade package of the season this weekend.
“It’s quite a big package,” the Italian said of the Montreal updates.
Antonelli also revealed he is now becoming actively involved in the car’s development direction – traditionally a role reserved for more experienced drivers.
“After Miami, I spoke at length with a couple of engineers involved in development,” he explained.
“I have more experience and the team gives me more confidence.”
“I’m starting to give my input on what could give me even more confidence in the car.”
The teenager said Mercedes engineers are increasingly listening to his feedback for future updates as well.
“I’m starting to contribute more of my ideas, especially for future updates,” Antonelli said. “This dynamic is starting to develop where you begin to contribute your ideas based on your feelings about the car.”
Former driver Ralf Schumacher recently warned Russell risks slipping permanently into a number 2 role similar to Valtteri Bottas during the Lewis Hamilton era.
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES