# Mercedes gamble on Antonelli after Russell struggles

> Toto Wolff says Mercedes needed George Russell's skill to risk promoting Kimi Antonelli.
- Title: Mercedes gamble on Antonelli after Russell struggles
- Summary: Toto Wolff says Mercedes needed George Russell's skill to risk promoting Kimi Antonelli.
- Keywords: mercedes, george russell, kimi antonelli, formula 1, sao paulo gp, constructors title, championship, Motorsport
- Source: Motorsport — https://motorsport.com/f1/news/mercedes-could-only-gamble-on-kimi-antonelli-because-of-george-russell-toto-wolff-told-staff/10874338
- Author: Lydia Mee
- Published: 2026-11-13T15:30:07+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: mercedes, george russell, kimi antonelli, formula 1, f1, sao paulo gp, constructors title, championship, sports, cars
## Toto Wolff's staff message
Toto Wolff told Mercedes staff that Russell's calibre made promoting a rookie a calculated risk.
## Kimi Antonelli's background
Antonelli joined Mercedes in 2025 after Lewis Hamilton moved to Ferrari.
## Antonelli's early success
Antonelli became youngest world champion in F1 history at Mexican Grand Prix.
## George Russell's 2026 season
Russell faced numerous issues despite helping Mercedes win constructors' title in Brazil.
## Bradley Lord's explanation
Wolff sent email to factory emphasizing Russell's championship capability.
## Russell's championship position
Russell is third in championship, 17 points behind Max Verstappen.
## Key takeaway

Mercedes chose Kimi Antonelli as a rookie driver after George Russell's 2026 season challenges.