Russell adapts his driving as Antonelli holds a 66-point lead

George Russell acknowledges that Kimi Antonelli has performed better than him this season and deserves to lead the championship. After Monza, the Italian has 267 points to his team-mate's 201. Ten rounds remain on the calendar: Russell still wants to fight for the title, while acknowledging that he will also need circumstances to go his way.

The Briton offers an explanation rooted in driving style. In his view, Antonelli's more aggressive style suits the 2026 cars better than his own naturally smoother approach. He is therefore working to change his habits. He has outqualified his team-mate in the last three qualifying sessions and believes he has regained comparable race pace over the last two rounds, something he could not claim before the summer break.

The Madring will provide a fresh test of that adaptation, particularly under braking while turning, where a locked wheel can prove costly. Russell must now turn his progress into results to close the gap. Antonelli, meanwhile, says he wants to keep targeting victory rather than simply protecting his lead.