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Driver News Combined from 3 sources

Russell backs Mercedes call to let Antonelli through in Dutch GP

George Russell said he agreed with Mercedes’ late-race call in the Dutch Grand Prix to allow Kimi Antonelli past. He described the move as the right and fair decision, even though drivers naturally want to fight for every position.

F1 Hub Newsroom
August 23, 2026
Russell backs Mercedes call to let Antonelli through in Dutch GP

George Russell reflected on Mercedes team orders after the Dutch Grand Prix, where he chose to let Kimi Antonelli pass in the closing laps. The move allowed Antonelli to move into second place.

Russell said he believed it was the correct decision for his race. He also defended the call as fair, despite Antonelli being both his team mate and a championship rival.

At the same time, Russell acknowledged the instinct drivers have to battle for every position. Even so, his view was that allowing Antonelli through was the right outcome in the circumstances.

Sources (3)

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