George Russell Handed Stark Kimi Antonelli Title Warning

George Russell has been warned that Kimi Antonelli’s current form is making his pursuit of the 2026 Formula 1 title an increasingly difficult task.

Russell trails his team-mate by 25 points after nine rounds. The gap narrowed after Antonelli failed to score at the British Grand Prix because of a wheel shield failure, while Russell capitalised by finishing second behind Charles Leclerc.

Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner still considers Antonelli the strongest contender despite the Silverstone setback reopening the championship fight. He believes the 19-year-old has displayed a level of composure and race understanding that is difficult to overlook.

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Steiner highlighted Antonelli’s handling of Lewis Hamilton during the Sprint. Rather than forcing an early move, Antonelli stayed close, waited for the tyre situation and passing opportunity to develop, and then moved ahead before pulling clear.

“Kimi, at the moment, is something unbelievable for me. What he is doing is just remarkable,” Steiner said.

“He was not aggressive. He stayed right behind Lewis and, as soon as the opportunity came, I think with better tyres at that stage, he passed him and disappeared. Then he came back on Saturday afternoon and put the car on pole. The guy is so cool,” he added.

Russell has already acknowledged that he must improve if he is to take the fight to Antonelli. Steiner believes a recovery remains possible, but the outcome will depend on Russell raising his level and whether Antonelli can sustain his current form.

The 25-point margin means the championship remains open. However, Antonelli’s momentum and composure leave Russell needing an immediate step forward as the season moves into its next phase.