Kimi Antonelli Regrets Russell DNF as Mercedes Eyes Rivals

Kimi Antonelli has admitted Formula 1 was denied a potentially spectacular finish to the Canadian Grand Prix after team-mate George Russell retired from the lead with a power unit failure. The two Mercedes drivers spent the opening half of the race engaged in one of the most intense intra-team battles of the 2026 season.

For 30 laps at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Antonelli and Russell traded positions multiple times while steadily pulling away from the chasing pack. The pair appeared evenly matched on pace, turning the race into a direct fight between the championship leader and his closest rival.

The battle came to an abrupt end when Russell suffered a power unit failure on lap 30 while leading the race. The Briton was forced to stop on track, handing Antonelli control of the grand prix and effectively removing the only driver capable of challenging him for victory.

Baca JugaWolff Pertimbangkan Batasi Duel Russell-Antonelli

Russell's retirement allowed Antonelli to secure his fourth consecutive grand prix victory and extend his championship lead to 43 points. Despite benefiting from the incident, the Italian conceded it was disappointing that the contest could not continue to the chequered flag.

"It was a fun battle with George. We were very much on the limit and it was not easy with the wind. It was very gusty and Turn 10 was very difficult. We were very close and it was a shame for him with the failure because it would have been a really cool battle. But we will take it. Another win," Antonelli said.

Although Russell's retirement removed the immediate threat, Antonelli still had to manage front-left tyre graining during the latter stages of the race. Mercedes successfully controlled the issue, allowing the 19-year-old to maintain a comfortable advantage and even set the fastest lap on the final tour.

The result further strengthened Antonelli's position at the top of the drivers' standings, but the Italian remains cautious about Mercedes' prospects for the remainder of the season. While the Brackley-based team currently leads both championships, Antonelli believes the competitive picture is tightening.

Ferrari emerged as Mercedes' closest challenger in Montreal, with Lewis Hamilton securing second place. Meanwhile, Red Bull Racing and McLaren continue introducing upgrades as they attempt to reduce Mercedes' advantage.

"We have to keep raising the bar. George was extremely quick this weekend. We were neck and neck, and Ferrari, Red Bull and McLaren are definitely coming back, so we have to keep pushing and be ready for anything," Antonelli added.

With Monaco scheduled as the next round in two weeks' time, Mercedes arrives with strong momentum after four consecutive victories. However, Antonelli's comments underline a growing awareness within the team that its rivals are beginning to close the gap, setting up a crucial phase of the 2026 championship battle.