Russell approves Mercedes team order at Zandvoort: “It was the right decision”

George Russell aprovou a decisão da Mercedes de pedir que abrisse passagem para Andrea Kimi AnGeorge Russell backed Mercedes’ decision to swap positions between its drivers during the closing stages of the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, conceding that teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli had a clear pace advantage on fresh soft tires.

Starting 2nd on the grid, Russell lost position to Antonelli into Turn 1 at the initial start before battling tire degradation throughout the mid-race stint. Following a late Virtual Safety Car triggered by Esteban Ocon’s stopped Haas, Mercedes pitted Antonelli for soft tires while leaving Russell out on older rubber.

Recognizing the tire offset, race control instructed the #63 entry to let the championship leader through. Russell complied, slotting into 3rd and successfully holding off a late charge from Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton.

“It was a tough start for me, obviously losing the position into Turn 1,” Russell reflected after the race. “Those two [Norris and Antonelli] were extremely fast early on, and Lando was exceptionally quick at the end. It was hard to manage on those older tires, so I’m happy to be here on the podium because it could have ended differently.”

While admitting that every driver naturally wants to fight for position, Russell emphasized that Antonelli’s overtake was inevitable given the tire differential.

“Kimi was ahead of me earlier in the race anyway, so he deserved to finish ahead,” Russell stated. “With the fresh tires, he would have passed me regardless, so it was the right decision. I’m just happy to be back on the podium—it’s been a little while for me, and overall it was a strong weekend.”

Formula 1 heads next to Monza for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix from September 4–6. GRANDE PRÊMIO covers all paddock news live from Zandvoort with reporter Leonid Kliuev. Follow all updates on our news page.

Drivers’ Championship Standings (Top 5 after Dutch GP)

Session schedule: Italian Grand Prix 2026 (Next Round)

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. Where did George Russell finish at the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix?

George Russell finished in 3rd place, completing a 2-3 double podium for Mercedes at Circuit Zandvoort.

2. Why did Mercedes order George Russell to let Andrea Kimi Antonelli pass?

Antonelli had pitted for fresh soft tires during a late Virtual Safety Car, giving him significantly superior pace over Russell, who remained on older tires.

3. What was George Russell’s result in Saturday’s Sprint race at Zandvoort?

Russell won Saturday’s Sprint race from pole position, leading every lap ahead of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.