Mercedes are intensifying their efforts to overhaul Max Verstappen in the drivers’ championship while aiming to secure 2nd place in the constructors’ standings.
With 10 races remaining, Mercedes are focused on closing the gap to championship leader Oscar Piastri of McLaren, who leads Verstappen by 97 points. The Dutch driver’s hopes of clinching a fifth consecutive title have faded, with Red Bull’s RB21 struggling to match McLaren’s pace.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, has said, “It’s impossible for Verstappen to become a five-time champion this year,” acknowledging the steep challenge.
George Russell, currently 15 points behind Verstappen, is eager to capitalize on the reigning champion’s dip in form. The two drivers share a fierce rivalry, and Russell’s strong performances, including a victory in Canada, have Mercedes optimistic.
“George is in a close battle with Max for P3 in the drivers’ championship,” said Andrew Shovlin, Mercedes’ trackside engineering director. “We’ve seen excellent race pace from Kimi Antonelli too, and our focus is to get him starting further up the grid to convert that into points.”
Mercedes are also locked in a tight fight for second in the constructors’ championship, trailing Ferrari by 24 points with Red Bull close behind.
“Ferrari are just ahead, and Red Bull are right there, so it’s going to be fun,” Shovlin added. “Budapest showed we’ve got a competitive car when we get it right, and we’re aiming to add to our race wins.”
The team’s Montreal triumph, where Russell claimed victory, has fueled hopes for more success on similar circuits.
Meanwhile, Verstappen has confirmed his commitment to Red Bull for 2026, ending speculation about a move to Mercedes. “I’m happy where I am,” he said ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, a statement echoed by Marko, who confirmed the clause allowing Verstappen to leave early has expired.
The battle resumes at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, a 72-lap race on the 4.259-kilometer circuit, on August 31. With Russell and Antonelli pushing hard, Mercedes are poised to challenge their rivals and make the second half of the season a thrilling contest.
