2016 Formula 1 champion Nico Rosberg declared that George Russell has returned to his best speed of the 2026 season.
Launch: Russell’s Early Season Struggles
The Briton started the championship as a title favourite, taking victory at the season‑opening Australian Grand Prix and then winning the Chinese sprint. Nevertheless, a series of ill‑timed safety cars and sporadic car reliability issues thwarted his race strategy and left him a step further behind.
Antonelli’s Surprising Rise
While Russell fought his way back, his teenage teammate Kimi Antonelli seized the lead at the Japanese Grand Prix and went on to add five more victories before the midway point. The sudden surge of the unlikely rookie intensified the pressure on Mercedes’ number‑two driver.
Dutch Sprint Redemption
After the summer break, Russell returned in style, winning the Dutch sprint from pole and lining up second for the Netherlands Grand Prix. The performance signalled a fresh surge of confidence that many saw as evidence of the driver’s mental reset.
Rosberg’s Verdict
Rosberg told Sky Sports that the paddock had been “caught off guard” by Russell’s lack of raw pace in the first half of the season. “It wasn’t just bad luck,” he said. “He wasn’t quick enough, and Antonelli simply out‑delivered him.” He added that Russell now looks more like the “George Russell of old” and that the team is eager to see him sustain the momentum.
Russell’s Confidence Boost
When asked how the race would unfold, Russell said, “The car feels more intuitive, I’ve got renewed confidence and it seems more natural.” He hoped the trend would continue and noted, “Ferraris could be quick, Lando fast – it’s going to be a good fight.”
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