BBC F1 correspondent Andrew Benson answers reader questions after the United States Grand Prix, where both Mercedes drivers ran new upgrades. Kimi Antonelli dominated qualifying and the race, while George Russell did not match that success.
The defining theme of the 2026 season has been Antonelli's rise after a mixed rookie year. Benson says he has overwhelmed Russell, who has accepted that Antonelli has done the better job this year. Antonelli has benefited from some luck, including safety car periods in Japan and Madrid, but he has also delivered standout performances in Monaco, Monza and Austin. He is almost certain to clinch the world title in Mexico City. Russell has won three races to Antonelli's nine.
Team principal Toto Wolff said Russell had struggled in Austin to find the right set-up with the upgrade package, which has been problematic since its introduction in Malaysia. Wolff said the car's behaviour, not Russell's ability, was largely to blame, and that the team must work out why the gap in performance is so large.
Benson notes that driving style and set-up can both cause struggles, but the all-time greats, such as Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, usually find a way to perform regardless of the car. If Antonelli keeps this level, Russell will have a difficult task. Benson argues he must regroup over the winter and return stronger next season.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing