Mercedes Drivers Cleared to Race Freely After Canada Clashes

George Russell and Kimi Antonelli have been given the green light to race each other freely as long as they show respect, following Mercedes talks after their close battles in Canada. The duo made minor contact in both the Sprint and Grand Prix, but the team has opted against imposing any rules. Russell, who retired with an engine problem in Montreal, now sits 43 points behind Antonelli in the standings.

Why it matters:

Mercedes has won every Grand Prix in 2026, but internal competition can be a fragile asset. By trusting their drivers to self-regulate, the team avoids stifling their talent but risks costly collisions. With Antonelli leading the championship and Russell determined to fight back, this hands-off approach will be a defining factor in the title race.

The details:

• Both drivers met with Mercedes this week to review every incident from Montreal.
• The conclusion: race hard but with respect. No team orders.
• Antonelli: “They want both cars to finish and score points. That’s in our minds too.”
• Russell: “We have to be trusted. We push ourselves to the limit. We know the boundaries.”
• Russell believes the championship is “anybody’s to win” despite his deficit, referencing past comebacks.
• Antonelli says he’s “surprised” by his four consecutive wins but refuses to think about the title yet.

What's next:

Monaco presents a different challenge. Ferrari’s strength in slow corners makes them favorites, neutralizing Mercedes’ power unit advantage.

• Russell expects Ferrari to be quickest, especially Charles Leclerc.
• The damaged Canadian power unit suffered heavy battery damage, but no performance impact is expected for remaining races.
• If Mercedes can upset in Monaco, Russell’s title hopes get a boost; if not, Antonelli could extend his lead further.