Former driver Anthony Davidson believes that George Russell is now ready to clinch the title after observing the Briton’s rapid adaptation to the new rules during the Bahrain tests.
Read more Australia: the FIA reduces recoverable energy in qualifying
The Silver Arrows approach the Australian Grand Prix with the favorite tag thanks to the experience of Mercedes without hybrid engines.
For several months, the Brackley team was expected to benefit from the new engine framework, marked by a distribution close to 50/50 between electric and thermal power, and in Sakhir, the W17 left the impression of being the most complete car on the grid.
The fast and consistent Mercedes
Some rivals and observers, including Charles Leclerc and Juan Pablo Montoya, have suggested that Mercedes had not revealed its full potential. The innovative rear wing and the redesigned floor notably attracted attention, reinforcing the idea that the team still has margin.
Davidson, interviewed by Sky Sports F1, was clear: “I think he started on a good foundation. The car is fast enough to be consistently at the front, and no longer just occasionally. He is ready to win a world championship. “
Read more The stakes of Formula 2 with Rafael Camara and Colton Herta as luxury rookies
In 2025, the final season of the ground-effect era, Russell took a step forward by establishing himself as the natural leader after the departure of Lewis Hamilton, supported by rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The Briton scored 319 of Mercedes’ 469 points, securing second place in the constructors’ championship, just 18 points behind Red Bull Racing. He also took two victories — in Canada and Singapore — both from pole position.
Wolff: “He deserves it”
Mercedes director Toto Wolff logically considers his driver a legitimate favorite: ” It’s always nice to have your driver as the favorite with the bookmakers, and I think he deserves it because he is one of the best. He showed us where the car’s performance lies. This has been overall more than satisfactory for us. George has been in Formula 1 for a long time. He is a benchmark. “
With a car more predictable than previous generations and a 2026 regulation that seems to suit his style, Russell may finally have the stable technical environment he lacked to aim for the title. If the hierarchy observed in Bahrain is confirmed, 2026 could mark his true assault on the world crown.
Read more New blow for Aston Martin: Fernando Alonso deprived of track time in Melbourne