Rosberg says Russell is 'back at his best' after Antonelli outpaced him in F1's first half

Nico Rosberg has declared that George Russell is “back at his best” following a troubled first half of the 2026 Formula 1 season, pointing to the Briton’s strong showing at the Dutch Grand Prix weekend as evidence of a genuine resurgence.

Russell arrived at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix as a title favourite and won in Melbourne, as well as taking victory in the Chinese sprint race. But a run of ill-timed safety cars, strategic setbacks and car problems derailed his campaign, while teenage Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli seized the initiative — winning six grands prix in the opening half of the season and taking the lead of the standings at the Japanese Grand Prix.

At Zandvoort, however, Russell won the Dutch sprint race from pole position and qualified second for the main grand prix, prompting 2016 world champion Rosberg to reassess his form.

“It was a big surprise to all of us, his performance in the first half of the season,” Rosberg said. “You mentioned bad luck but it wasn’t just bad luck — he’s also not been quick enough. Antonelli was just the quicker driver.”

Rosberg suggested that the resolution of Russell’s engagement situation with Mercedes may have freed him mentally. “It’s great to see him back at his best here this weekend, he seems really on it. Maybe his engagement has flipped a switch in his mind. He’s finally relaxed now because that’s done, and it’s like the George Russell of old. This is the level we know he’s capable of.”

Russell himself acknowledged a renewed sense of confidence with the car heading into the Dutch Grand Prix. “I hope it continues. It feels more like a normal weekend. The car’s feeling more intuitive, I’ve got more confidence in the car, and then it just comes more naturally,” the 28-year-old said.

Russell also flagged the competition he expects to face in the race. “I think the Ferraris are going to be quick, Lando will be fast, so it’s going to be a good fight.”

With Antonelli having built a commanding lead in the standings through the first half of the season, Russell’s return to form at Zandvoort sets up a potentially pivotal intra-team battle as the championship enters its second phase.