Russell plays down title comeback after Antonelli extends lead at Monza
George Russell said he is not thinking about a Formula 1 title comeback after the Italian Grand Prix, where Kimi Antonelli increased his championship advantage to 66 points. Antonelli won at Monza from 19th on the grid, strengthening his position in the 2026 standings.
Russell suffered another setback to his title hopes at Monza and said he is not thinking about mounting a comeback. The Mercedes driver acknowledged that overturning Antonelli’s advantage will be difficult.
Russell started second at Monza while Antonelli lined up 19th, giving Russell a chance to reduce what had been a 59-point deficit. But Antonelli climbed rapidly through the field and was up to sixth by lap six.
Antonelli went on to win the Italian Grand Prix from 19th on the grid, extending his championship lead to 66 points. With a maximum of 10 rounds remaining, subject to the Qatar and Abu Dhabi grands prix and the situation in the Middle East, he is in a very strong position in the 2026 title race.
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