Russell sent worrying warning: 'He will be aware that his seat is under threat'

While the Briton entered 2026 as the clear favourite for the title, the first half of the season has painted a very different picture. Antonelli has instead emerged as the dominant force, while Russell, who has also endured his share of bad luck, has fallen 69 points behind after 11 races, leaving him with a deficit equivalent to almost three Grand Prix victories to make up.

Speaking to a betting site, Herbert argued that Antonelli's consistency is currently putting Russell under considerable pressure, with the Italian regularly getting the better of his teammate.

While acknowledging that Russell has endured a difficult season and has not always benefited from good fortune, the former FIA steward stressed that setbacks are simply part of Formula 1. He added that the situation will be particularly difficult for Russell given that many, including Herbert himself, expected 2026 to be his year.

“I believe that Kimi Antonelli's consistency is definitely causing George Russell problems at the moment. It seems that every time Russell gets in the car, he gets thoroughly thrashed by Kimi. I know it hasn't been a perfect season for him. I know luck might not have been on his side, but that’s part of Formula 1. This will be tough on him because everyone, myself included, thought this would be George’s year. But it hasn't turned out that way.”

Herbert also pointed to the possibility of Verstappen potentially joining Mercedes in the future. In his view, that prospect is unlikely to help Russell's state of mind:“There are the constant rumours about Max Verstappen potentially joining Mercedes in the medium term, which certainly don't help Russell's mood. George will be aware that his seat is under threat.”

The summer break has given Russell the chance to switch off from the pressures of Formula 1, but the Mercedes driver also has a special reason to enjoy his time away from the paddock after getting engaged to his longtime partner Carmen Mundt.

Russell confirmed the news on social media by sharing a collection of pictures with Mundt, one of which featured her wearing her engagement ring. The post was met with plenty of reactions from the F1 world, as Mercedes and several drivers congratulated the couple on the announcement.

The pair's relationship dates back to 2020, when they first met through a mutual friend in London. Mundt has since regularly been seen alongside Russell during Grand Prix weekends, supporting him throughout his rise with Mercedes. Russell and Mundt have also established a life together away from Formula 1, with the couple now based in Monaco. Mundt graduated in finance and business management and previously worked in investment relations.