Russell reveals why he fled Mexico City after Antonelli's title-clinching win

George Russell has broken his silence on leaving the Mexico City circuit without fulfilling his media obligations after the Mexican Grand Prix, an absence that cost Mercedes a €5,000 FIA fine.

Russell departed shortly after congratulating team-mate Kimi Antonelli, who sealed his maiden world championship at the race. Team principal Toto Wolff had given Russell permission to leave before the mandatory press sessions took place.

Speaking to F1.com at Interlagos ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix, Russell was candid about his state of mind in the immediate aftermath.

“As much as I love talking to [the media] after the race, I didn’t really fancy it on this occasion,” he said. “So I was like, ‘I’m going to just get out of here and go for a nice dinner and think about something other than the rubbish season we’ve had.’”

Russell had entered the 2026 season as a clear title favourite but watched a series of setbacks — largely outside his control — erode his championship hopes as Antonelli pulled clear in the standings.

The Briton acknowledged the breach of protocol but was unapologetic about the decision in context.

“In racing you always pick yourself back up, and for me, the best way to pick myself back up was getting out of there,” Russell said. “It was as simple as that, really. I was just very upset with missing out on the chance of a good result because the championship for me was already over but I just couldn’t believe how things had panned out again.”

“I think I’m 99% of the time a true professional and I try not to spit my dummy out, but sometimes missing out on doing the press — OK, it’s not ideal but not the end of the world. Moments like that you don’t really want to deal with it.”

Despite the difficult season, Russell remains in contention for second place in the drivers’ championship, and Mercedes has yet to secure the constructors’ title heading into the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend.