The competition for the Formula 1 runner-up position for 2026 is intensifying, with Max Verstappen leading George Russell by 90 points. Currently, there are three races left to conclude the season, with the possibility that the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix will take place as scheduled.
Verstappen leads the standings with 279 points, followed by Russell with 262, Lewis Hamilton with 261, Charles Leclerc with 249, and Lando Norris with 246. The battle for second place is shaping up to be exciting, especially after Kimi Antonelli crowned world champion for the first time in Mexico.
After five disastrous races, Russell has obtained only 26 points, while Verstappen has added 116 during this period. Russell has suffered a series of setbacks, including an engine failure in Malaysia, an accident during the sprint, a penalty in Singapore, a disappointing race in Austin, deployment issues in Mexico, and a spin at the pit exit in Sao Paulo, which severely hindered him.
After the Brazilian Grand Prix, the team principal of Mercedes, Toto Wolff, stated that the team wants Russell to accumulate the maximum points and aspires to a possible second place in the standings. ‘We are considering how we can provide all the possible support to ensure he achieves this,’ Wolff said.
This result contrasts with the triumphant moment of Mercedes in Interlagos, where the team secured its ninth victory in F1 and the second with Russell. The Brit has the opportunity to recover and fight for a better position next season after a year of difficulties.
Wolff expressed his support and highlighted Russell’s resilience: ‘All great athletes have gone through tough times, and this will be part of their ongoing development.’
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
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