Kimi Antonelli in Austin - Photo: Race Pictures

Antonelli sets the record straight on new Mercedes contract duration

11:53, 17 Oct

Updated: 12:56, 17 Oct

byTobia Elia

Kimi Antonelli has shared his thoughts after the announcement of his contract extension with Mercedes for next season.

"I race year by year, and the goal is always to deliver the best result possible."

- Kimi Antonelli

Commenting on his renewal ahead of the Austin weekend, the young Italian driver told GPblog:"The team has always been very clear on their plans and on what they wanted to do, so I was never really worried, but it's always nice to get the confirmation.

"Especially during the difficult periods, some doubt starts to kick in, but the team has always been very supportive and very open that they wanted to continue with me, especially for next year. I'm really happy to have gotten the confirmation now that it's been announced. Even though I knew it, it still kind of relaxes me a little bit more because I know now for sure that I'm in the seat for next year."

Antonelli was then asked whether his new deal only covers next season or if his seat is secured for 2027 as well, with the Italian admitting that he prefers to take things one season at a time.

Kimi Antonelli - Photo: Race Pictures

"To be honest, I don't know — I race year by year, and the goal is always to deliver the best result possible. The team obviously wants to work with me also in the future, not only next year, but I need to perform as well.

Antonelli finally admitted that performing well in 2026 will be crucial for him to secure a renewal for 2027, as he’ll already have a year of experience under his belt.

"Their plan is to continue with me probably beyond 2026 as well. But me, as a driver, I need to perform and deliver the results, especially next year, because next year I’m going to have a year under my belt."

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"It’s going to be a new regulation for everyone and a massive opportunity. So if we have the car, it’s going to be really important for me to maximise the results and perform at my best — especially if I want the seat for 2027 and beyond."

How long are Antonelli and Russell’s new deals?

For months, uncertainty surrounded the long-term future of George Russell and Antonelli, as both drivers’ contracts were set to expire at the end of 2025. The speculation only grew louder amid persistent rumours of Max Verstappen being linked to Mercedes.

That uncertainty has now been put to rest, as both drivers have committed their futures to the Silver Arrows. With fresh deals signed, Mercedes can now look ahead with stability — but just how long will Russell and Antonelli remain part of the team?

Here’s what GPblog has discovered.

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