# Christian Horner: Kimi Antonelli earns Mercedes' number one spot

> Christian Horner says Kimi Antonelli has earned Mercedes' number one spot after dominating 2026 season.
- Title: Christian Horner: Kimi Antonelli earns Mercedes' number one…
- Summary: Christian Horner says Kimi Antonelli has earned Mercedes' number one spot after dominating 2026 season. Christian Horner states Kimi Antonelli has earned the…
- Keywords: kimi antonelli, mercedes, george russell, formula 1, christian horner, red bull, sports, cars, Christian, Horner, Kimi, Antonelli
- Source: Motorsport — https://motorsport.com/f1/news/christian-horner-kimi-antonelli-has-earned-the-right-to-be-mercedes-number-one/10865153
- Author: Ed Hardy
- Published: 2026-10-20T11:16:58+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: kimi antonelli, mercedes, george russell, formula 1, christian horner, f1, red bull, sports, cars
## Kimi Antonelli's 2026 dominance
Kimi Antonelli leads George Russell by 102 points with six races remaining.
## Antonelli's title credentials
Antonelli achieved 14 podiums including eight wins in his second year of F1.
## Horner's driver selection rationale
Horner states Antonelli earned the right to be Mercedes' number one driver through performance.
## Red Bull's historical approach
Red Bull prioritized drivers who won multiple championships like Vettel and Verstappen.
## Mercedes' contrasting strategy
Mercedes gave equal treatment to Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in 2026.
## Horner's historical comparison
Horner references Williams' 1986 title race with Mansell and Piquet against Prost.
## Red Bull's driver selection principle
Red Bull prioritizes drivers who can win championships over team harmony.
## Key takeaway

Christian Horner states Kimi Antonelli has earned the right to be Mercedes' number one driver over George Russell after a dominant 2026 season.